The largest public transit agency in western Massachusetts launched a series of public hearings Monday on a proposed fare hike.
Facing a $3.1 million budget deficit, officials with the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority have proposed a 25 percent fare hike along with eliminating or reducing service on more than 30 bus routes beginning in July.
At a public hearing in Springfield Monday, several speakers complained cuts would impact bus routes in predominately minority neighborhoods. Lorraine Crump said she’s angry about it.
" We don't all have cars, and great-paying jobs, so we depend on the bus," said Crump.
About 30 people rallied for more state funding for public transit as the legislature’s Ways and Means Committee held a hearing at UMass Amherst.
