Somerville Transportation Equity Partnership (STEP)

January 23, 2012

Run-down of the key facts, links, and events relating to the proposed MBTA fare and service changes

Here's a one-page summary of what's going on and where you can go to learn more or get involved. We'll update the following as events unfold.

EVENTS

Feb 28
MBTA hearing on fare hikes & service cuts (Somerville High School) - with a 5:30 rally outside the high school before the hearing

Full list of MBTA meetings on fare increases and service cuts

March 14
Rally before MBTA Board's final pre-decision meeting

April 4
People's Assembly and Speak-Out at the Massachusetts State House (the date that the Board is supposed to hand down their "final" decision)

SEND COMMENTS

Public comments will be accepted through March 1, 2012 by email to fareproposal@mbta.com, via snail mail to MBTA, Ten Park Plaza, Boston, Ma 02116, Attention: Fare Proposal Committee, and by phone at 617-222-3200/ TTY (617) 222-5146.

THE BASICS

The MBTA is in an impossible situation. Saddled with debt and deficits, the T has proposed two scenarios as a short-term fix. One raises fares around 43% and eliminates 60 bus routes. The other raises fares around 35% and eliminates over 200 bus routes. Either option would be devastating to Somerville residents.

POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS

The Massachusetts Legislature simply must step in and rethink transportation financing.

ORGANIZATIONS

Check out these groups to get involved