Last week, the Transit Board heard dozens of customers talk about President Huberman's proposed budget. We appreciate the thoughtful comments and will take them under consideration as we consider the 2009 budget.
Some of the issues most commonly brought up:
Lifts on CTA buses. This seems to be a recurring concern for a number of customers, and while our fleet's accessibility is now at 100 percent, isolated cases of inoperable lifts are unacceptable. Our garages test each bus before it leaves for a run, but where lift problems occur midroute (or are missed on the garage check), the only way I can help is if customers take note of the bus, time of day, operator number, and any other relevant information. If you see or experience a lift problem, please let me know.
Fuel cost volatility. Like you, CTA's fuel costs are up considerably this year. Fuel costs fluctuate significantly which makes it difficult to forecast future prices. The CTA is mandated to use ultra low sulfur diesel that costs more due to the refining process. In 2008 the CTA twice amended its budget to cover the increased cost of fuel.
Service levels. There will be no service cuts in this budget. Let me repeat: there will be no service cuts in the budget. The tough budget cutting and cost savings we're talking about, hitting CTA employees especially hard, are necessary so we can avoid cutting service.
I continue to welcome your comments and input on President Huberman's budget. As you all know, the Transit Board reads these comments and often makes changes to the final budget CTA adopts based on them, so please let me know what you think. The Transit Board is scheduled to vote on the budget on November 12, so get your comments in before then.
Again, the best way to communicate your thoughts is by writing to ctaboard@transitchicago.com.
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