Jul 14, 2023, 8:32 PM

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Orange and Rockland County residents who ride the Metro-North are keeping their fingers crossed to avoid a proposed MTA fare hike that would take a big bite out of their budgets.

While they may be closer to catching a break, there is still one more hurdle to cross.

The proposed MTA fare hike for commuters west of the Hudson who change trains in New Jersey would be nearly 5%.

Those using the three direct lines east of the river were also facing fare increases of about 3%.

The news is becoming more positive.

"We made the argument that west of Hudson commuters don't have the same level of service as east of the Hudson, that can get on a train and get right into New York City. Right? They got to go down to New Jersey and then cross over. So we've made that argument that one, they don't have the same level of service, but two, New Jersey Transit has really not been providing reliable service for a number of years," said Assembly Member Ken Zebrowski.

Zebrowski added that the fare hike freeze is, on his words, "a done deal." However, the MTA Board will have the final say when it votes on the matter as early as next week.