Transit is Essential, Public Transit Public Good Coalitions to Rally in Support of MBTA Low-Income Fare Legislation
Mayor Michelle Wu; environmental, business, labor leaders; and riders to urge the legislature to mandate and resource a systemwide approach to transit affordability
WHAT: Transit is Essential and Public Transit Public Good – two coalitions representing more than 70 labor, business, community, and environmental justice groups working toward affordable, accessible MBTA service for all – will hold a joint rally calling on legislators to pass legislation this session that would mandate and resource a low-income fare program for the MBTA system.
A low-income fare policy enjoys broad public support across the state, as well as among many communities of business, civic, and local elected leaders. Data shows that a reduced fare for the MBTA would allow low-income people to afford 30% more trips and can help ensure families don’t have to decide between getting to where they need to go, buying groceries, going to the doctor, or other necessities.
Through free fare bus pilots, cities and towns have shown leadership and demonstrated that more affordable transit is achievable, effective, and necessary. We can no longer take a piecemeal approach or rely on municipalities to dip into their limited resources – we need a systemwide solution.
Following the rally, event participants will head to the State House to advocate directly to legislators to move legislation forward.
WHO: Boston Mayor Michelle Wu
Karen Maxwell, Assistant Secretary of Carmen’s Union Local 589
Mela Miles, Alternatives For Community & Environment (ACE), T Riders Union
Richard A. Dimino, President and CEO, A Better City
Mitikei Chengerei, public transit rider, interpretation by Maria Belén Power, GreenRoots
WHEN: Monday, April 25, 2022, 12 p.m.
WHERE: Park Street MBTA Station, Boston, MA 02108
About Public Transit Public Good Coalition:
Public Transit Public Good is a partnership of transit workers and riders throughout Massachusetts fighting for the future of public transit. Community Labor United convenes PTPG.
Visit
to learn more.
About Transit is Essential:
Transit is Essential is a coalition of 60 organizations calling on state leaders to fully fund robust, equitable and reliable transit service. For more information visit: