Transit provision is a vital function of the region’s economic and social health. Some populations are dependent on transit as their primary means to access to jobs, healthcare, and services. The MBTA and regional transit authorities should not be expected to fund themselves independently. Subsidy from the Commonwealth is reasonable and necessary, but it is also important that transit passengers pay a meaningful share of the service operating cost.
22.a The MBTA and the RTAs should institute regular and predictable increases in fares to keep pace with inflation
22.b The MBTA and the RTAs should consider instituting off-peak pricing for transit to encourage increased ridership and more efficient use of transit infrastructure.