As America’s inflation rates continue to climb, so do the prices for transportation. On August 20th, 2023, bus fares were increased in order to keep up with the nation’s inflation rates. Today, a single trip on the local bus or subway in New York City costs $2.90, which is a $0.15 increase from last year. Although the change is small, it can add up and become costly for those that often use city transportation. Many people argue that public transportation fares should be lowered, and some even say they should be free.
Free public transportation is likely to reduce air pollution from other vehicles. If bus fares are free, more people will feel inclined to take city transit, instead of driving and using gas they have to pay for. This additionally will keep more cars off the road, and reduce traffic. Reduction of vehicles on the road can also help with air quality, especially in cities.
According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, cars emit greenhouse gasses that directly contribute to climate change. The elimination of fares will not only get more people to ride city transportation, but also target the problem of greenhouse gas emissions, as well as climate change. This is one reason why public transportation should be free.
In addition, free public transit will benefit people with tighter budgets and less money. A round trip using public transportation is $5.80, which can add up overtime and have a negative impact. According to Sustainable America, Americans spend 15% of their budget on public transit. This percentage of money may cause people to miss out on certain necessities, such as health care and insurance. In the case of an accident, it’s important for people to have access and be able to pay for coverage, and prevent them from falling into debt.
In conclusion, public transit should overall be lowered. It’s not cheap living in America, and the raised cost of bus fares only adds to this problem. By making bus and subway fares free, it targets several problems that the United States is currently facing. A climbing rate of air pollution and climate change that is slowly destroying the earth, and the cost of daily commuting that piles up continuously.