Metro opens public comment period on service cuts, other actions necessary as federal funding ends

[mahatmakanejeeves]

Did you see the half-page notice WMATA placed on the back page of the Sports section in last Saturday's Washington Post? Dig the paper out from the recycling and take a look. Those are some big service cuts.

METRO, TRANSIT

“Metro opens public comment period on service cuts, other actions necessary as federal funding support ends”

Prince Of Petworth September 28, 2020 at 2:45pm

From WMATA:

“Metro today officially opened the public comment period and announced the many ways the public can make their voice heard regarding the impact of Covid-19 budget cuts that must be considered as federal funding support ends. Due to the pandemic’s impact on ridership and revenue, Metro is heavily dependent on CARES Act funding that will run out by the end of the year.

As a result, Metro’s Board of Directors must prepare to cut more than $200 million from the transit agency’s annual operating budget, something that is only possible through a combination of service cuts, reduced hours, layoffs, furloughs, and internal cost-cutting measures.

Metro is encouraging anyone impacted by these changes to make their voice heard as part of the official Public Comment period, which runs through 9 a.m. October 19, 2020.”

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Covid-19 budget impacts. Provide your feedback on proposals to balance the budget.

En Español

Notice of Public Hearing | Proposed Systemwide Service Changes | Take the survey {bad link} | FY21 Amended Budget Book

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[mahatmakanejeeves]

1. WMATA proposes eliminating bus routes

Previously at DU:

Tue Sep 29, 2020: Metro opens public comment period on service cuts, other actions necessary as federal funding ends

WMATA proposes eliminating bus routes
October 8, 2020

By Missy Schrott | [email protected]

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority is proposing budget cuts that could result in decreased rail and bus service in Alexandria. ... Like most sectors, public transportation has been impacted by the coronavirus. Due to the pandemic-induced revenue decrease, WMATA predicts that it will need to cut $215 million from its fiscal year 2021 budget and between $450 and $470 million from its FY2022 budget.

As a result, WMATA’s midyear budget proposal, which has been approved by the WMATA board for public hearing, recommends eliminating certain bus routes in Alexandria and reducing services.

Specifically, WMATA proposes permanently eliminating the 7W, 8S, 8W, 8Z, 10E, 11Y, 21A, and 21D bus routes. All of these routes are currently suspended because of the pandemic, but the temporary change could become permanent if the budget is approved. The proposal also recommends eliminating NH2 weekend service and reducing service on three routes: the Metroway, 22A and 22F.

WMATA will hold a public hearing on the proposed changes on Oct. 13 at 3 p.m. Speakers who cannot attend the virtual hearing live can also submit audio or video comments. For more information on how to submit comments, go to www.wmata.com/initiatives/budget.

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