The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) is using digital ads to highlight its need for $12 billion in federal funding to avert service cuts, fare and toll increases, and headcount reductions.
The initiative is in conjunction with the agency’s #SaveTransit campaign. The announcements were created in-house by MTA employees and slated to be distributed across social media channels. The effort will also include video content and in-system messaging on digital screens and buses throughout the system, per authorities.
The proposed cuts would be implemented if the agency does not receive the $12 billion funding allocation from Congress, officials said, adding the agency is facing the worst financial crisis in its history.
Additionally, the MTA maintains subways, buses, Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North ridership is experiencing greater declines than in the aftermath of the Great Depression.
“The MTA simply cannot wait any longer for relief from Washington,” Patrick J. Foye, MTA chairman and CEO, said. “New York’s economic future and the country’s relies on a strong MTA powering progress. If the Senate fails to step up and deliver $12 billion, it would be a devastating blow to mass transit as we know it. We need action now, and the more we can amplify this message, the better.”