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MTA should eliminate some jobs to prepare for budget woes, watchdog writes
Gothamist • • business
Key Points:
- The Citizens Budget Commission warns that the MTA could face a nearly $900 million funding shortfall within four years due to spending outpacing fare revenue, recommending significant workforce cuts to close the gap.
- The commission suggests reducing train crews from two workers to one on lines with automated signaling, such as the L and 7 lines, potentially saving $36.5 million annually, with system-wide savings up to $500 million per year.
- The MTA is currently installing new signals on additional lines, but these still require two-person crews; the proposal to reduce staffing comes amid ongoing contract negotiations with the Transport Workers Union Local 100.
- The Citizens Budget Commission also recommends streamlining fare collection on commuter railroads and increasing healthcare premiums for retirees, estimating these reforms could save $2.5 billion annually.
- The Transport Workers Union opposes the job cuts, emphasizing progress made in operational efficiencies and defending worker compensation, while the MTA acknowledges efficiency gains but has not commented on the staffing reduction proposal.
