The Metropolitan Transportation Authority board has voted to move forward with a new round of fare increases and ticketing policy changes for Long Island Rail Road riders.
Under the plan, weekly and monthly LIRR passes would rise by up to 4.5 percent beginning January 1, pending final approval. MTA officials say the increase is necessary to offset rising operating costs and maintain service levels.
In addition to the fare hike, the board also approved a change affecting how tickets are purchased. Riders who buy tickets onboard from a conductor—or activate them through the TrainTime app once already on the train—will face a $2 surcharge.
Transit advocates say the changes highlight ongoing affordability concerns for commuters, while MTA leaders maintain the adjustments are essential to sustaining the system.