Just months after the MBTA raised fares, the T faces a $130 million deficit for the next budget year, according to an analysis released Monday by a regional think tank.
But that daunting financial gap is eclipsed by a $240 million shortfall to operate the highway system, the study concluded.
Comments
Cut some of the hacks!
This article is just softening the public for more "investment" aka tax increase. The question is where ?
Ms Scott would do well to start by shutting off unnecessary lights within the T system. Starting with the Quincy Ctr Red Line parking garage that is closed and fenced off and being unused but the lights continue to burn 24/7. Then when she gets done with that, consideration should be given to opening the access to the Quincy / Adams redline from Independence ave that has been closed for about 25 yrs. Now that would be a great service to those of us that cannot get to that station, even though it is a five minute walk, without driving to it. Hope she actually gets to read some of this stuff.
Transit is so bloated in Mass. You could cut hundreds of millions in consulting costs at MBTA and MASSDOT. No savings ocurred as a result of that merger. Stop issuing debt you can't pay for, it's not responsible management. Estimates are it will cost the average taxpayer about $500 more per year to fix this trail of fiscal mismanagement. Good luck Mass Taxpayers
Eliminate the prevailing wage requirements and the could save MILLIONS AND MILLIONS
If they don't have the funds to run and maintain what they already have, why are they building new stations all along the existing Fairmount Line ?
There is so much waste in the highway programs. I see road mile markers and guard rails that are not needed. I see lots of sound barriers where there were none. Take an axe to any work that is not of very significant value.
How about project management problems? Costs rise if projects are allowed to drag on like the intersection of 128 and Totten Pond.
I bet we can live in the current amount of money if really necessary, and it is necessary. The Federal Government is going to have to cut programs and participation and that will flow down to States, Cities, and towns. Get ready to be creative in spending less and delivering more.
The highway system needs to do away with the Police Officers standing at construction details... tremendous waste to the state. Absolutely needless for these officers to be standing on he highways & in the cities.
Travellers from other countries question if this necessary due to 911 - but, the truth is all about "GREED."