Call to Action
Everyone who has any family members or friends who are disabled or elderly must attend this public hearing at Hofstra University March 23, 2011 at 3PM to protest the plans to cut 25 of Long Island’s bus routes and 20% of Able-Ride’s service cuts.
Cuts unfairly target Long Island’s Disabled Riders
The MTA is set to vote in April on its plan to cut 25 , or almost half, of its Long Island bus service routes in July. The MTA is claiming, and perhaps rightfully so, that it is unfair that Nassau County only contributes $9.1 million to the Long Island Bus annual budget of $141 million. In contrast, Suffolk County contributes $24 million to its $48 million bus budget.
These service cuts would strand 16,000 riders, many of whom are disabled, and unable to afford taxis. Currently, the bus services more than 100,000 riders each day.
My daughter takes three buses in each direction to get to her classes at Nassau Community College. It already takes her more than two hours each way. Last semester she took an evening course and often missed the last bus and had to take a taxi to get home.
Disabled to Lose Able Ride Buses
According to Newsday, as many as 18%, or 200 of Able-Ride’s 1130 daily riders will no longer be eligible for door-to-door service if the proposed cuts are made.
I urge everyone to attend the public hearings at Hofstra University March 23, 2011 at 3PM. You can take the N46 or the N47 bus lines to get there.