Local 689 presents plan to save, stabilize and improve WMATA

A mix of fare adjustments, dedicated taxes, labor partnerships, and service adjustments will fix Washington, DC’s public transit system’s financial woes and attract new riders, according to a new report released by Local 689.

Among the key recommendations of the plan titled, Fund It, Fix It, Make It Fair, are a flat fare system rather than distance-based fares, free transfers from local bus to rail, fares based on riders’ ability to pay, and dedicating car rental taxes from airports to Metro’s operating costs. The report was released on the heels of Metro’s Board approving a new budget that includes less rush hour train service, fare increases, and shorter service hours. Watch story.