NYC Transit System Needs to Expand Fare Discounts, Report Finds

New York City should increase the number of residents who qualify for half-price subway and bus fares to make the transit system more affordable for lower-income riders, a financial watchdog group advises.

The city should broaden the program, called Fair Fares, to allow more residents to receive a 50% discount on subways and buses, according to a report from the Citizens Budget Commission, a nonprofit think tank that analyzes city and state spending. Right now a family of four making up to $49,500 is eligible for half-priced transit fares. The CBC is suggesting an increase that would raise that salary limit to $82,500.