The MBTA has backed off cuts to the Rockport/ Newburyport line of the commuter rail, according to its revised plans announced today.
According to a prepared statement from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, fares on the agency's commuter rail will go up an average of 29 percent, depending how far a person travels. But any cuts in commuter rail service will be limited to eliminating weekend service on the Greenbush, Needham and Kingston/Plymouth lines.
The MBTA statement also revised the budget gap faced by the MBTA, previously reported as $159 million, as $185 million.
Four bus lines running in the Boston area will be cut, and some other bus lines will have reduced service. Ferry service to Quincy will be cut on the weekends, and prices will rise on the trips that are made. But the specter of commuter rail cuts — including the initially proposed elimination of all weekend and late night service to and from Cape Ann along the Rockport line that had galvanized riders and community officials as well.
Under the revised MBTA proposal, student and senior fares will rise, as well as regular fares. The MBTA also identified $61 million in one-time revenues that can be tapped, as well as $38 million in administrative cuts that can be made.
The fare increases are expected to bring in $72.9 million, according to the MBTA.
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Stephanie Bergman can be reached at 978-283-7000, x3451, or at sbergman@gloucestertimes.com.
