New City, NY — Rockland County Executive Ed Day is demanding that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) withdraw its proposed Metro-North fare increases for West of Hudson riders, denouncing the move as “wholly unjustifiable” and “unacceptable” for Rockland commuters.
The MTA is currently conducting public hearings on the proposed fare adjustments, scheduled for August 19 and 20. County Executive Day’s strongly worded statement was released ahead of these hearings, aiming to spotlight the longstanding disparities between East and West of Hudson commuters.
“Any increase for Rockland County commuters is wholly unjustifiable,” said Day. “Our residents already face a value gap exceeding $40 million every year—paying far more into the system than they receive—while enduring inadequate, infrequent rail service and chronic underinvestment.”
Day particularly criticized the proposed fare hikes affecting the Pascack Valley and Port Jervis lines, noting that riders on these lines already absorbed a 15% increase by NJ Transit in 2024 and another 3% hike last month. “Now the MTA wants to pile on?” he asked.
He also highlighted that when Metro-North reduced monthly fares on its East of Hudson lines in 2022, no such relief was extended to West of Hudson riders, who have continued to pay higher monthly rates. “Metro-North’s so-called ‘increase’ for Hudson and Harlem line riders is actually lower than the rates they paid in 2022—while West of Hudson riders are asked to pay even more,” Day noted.
Calling for “true equity,” the County Executive outlined what he believes must precede any fare increase: expanded rail and ferry options, upgraded stations, and direct investment to bridge Rockland’s value gap with the MTA. He went so far as to suggest that the MTA should waive fares for Rockland riders rather than increase them.
The County Executive’s remarks underscore long-standing frustrations in Rockland County about unequal treatment in regional transit planning. As the MTA’s hearings unfold this week, Day’s statement sets the stage for strong opposition from local leaders and commuters alike.
To learn more or speak at the hearings, visit: https://www.mta.info/transparency/public-hearings