03-07-2025
Mamdani's Free NYC Buses Promise Is Easier Said Than Done
One of Zohran Mamdani's signature promises that may have helped him clinch the Democratic nomination for New York City mayor is the elimination of bus fares — a proposal inspired by cities in and outside of the US where free transit has gained traction.
At $2.90 per ride, wiping out fares would leave a major hole in Metropolitan Transportation Authority's already-strained budget, prompting questions about whether Mamdani could actually deliver — and what trade-offs might be required. The assemblyman says he has a plan to find alternative funding, but it would ultimately require approval from state and local lawmakers who have a range of ideologies, Sri Taylor and Michelle Kaske report. Today on CityLab: Can Mamdani Bring Free Buses to New York City?
