Under terms of the proposal, the T would raise subway fares by up to 70 cents and dramatically cut bus routes, eliminate ferries, and end weekend commuter-rail trains, among other changes. The plan was unveiled last month to help erase a projected $161 million deficit for the fiscal year beginning in July.
MBTA officials have stressed that details could change after a string of public hearings scheduled between now and mid-March. But that was small comfort to many in attendance last night, who broke into loud chants before the public comment period, including “Stand Up, Fight Back.’’
John Robinson, 63, of Somerville, protested the proposed cuts at a rally outside the library before the meeting.
Robinson, who does not drive because he is vision-imparied, said losing weekend service on the commuter rail would make it difficult to visit his father at his assisted-living facility in West Concord. “That’s cruel,’’ he said.
Denysha Jackson, 18, of Roslindale, a student at Fenway High School, said during the rally that she relies on the subway to get to class, as do many other students, and the proposed fare hikes would hurt. “I take the train every day, everywhere,’’ she said.
During the hearing, many attendees heckled Mark Boyle, assistant general manager for development at the MBTA, and booed as he laid out the grim financial picture facing the agency.
The antics drew condemnation from Mayor Thomas M. Menino of Boston, who testified against the proposed changes but first told the protesters, “You want to make noise, go outside.’’
He then launched into prepared remarks, arguing that the changes would harm the state’s most vulnerable residents and stifle economic growth.
“For many people, the T isn’t their first or second transportation choice; it’s their only choice,’’ he said.
Although some in attendance told MBTA officials they would be willing to pay slightly higher fares to stave off service cuts, many said the agency’s overall funding structure has to change.
