CDTA Bus Fares Rose 150% Between 1980 and 1995 | The Locally Times

CDTA Bus Fares Rose 150% Between 1980 and 1995

## Fare Increases and Context The base fare, which stood at 40 cents on April 1, 1980, rose to 50 cents on the same date. Subsequent increases occurred on April 1, 1985, raising the fare to 60 cents, and on June 4, 1990, when it reached 75 cents. By April 3, 1995, the base fare was $1.00. The New York State Legislature established CDTA as a public benefit corporation on August 1, 1970. The CDTA history document details these fare adjustments but does not specify the financial pressures or operational costs that justified the increases. Records also do not indicate the impact on ridership numbers or the accessibility of public transportation for low-income residents during this 15-year period. The level of public debate, legislative approval, or community feedback accompanying these adjustments is not detailed in the available history. Future reporting will investigate official justifications and public statements made by CDTA regarding each fare increase between 1980 and 1995. This will include examining specific board resolutions or legislative actions that authorized the fare hikes and analyzing supporting documentation, financial reports, and ridership data from that era.