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Mayor Proposes Free NYC Buses Amid Affordability Debate

2/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Mayor Zohran Mamdani proposes making NYC bus rides free to address affordability, a plan he says will help residents.
Critics say bus fares are not a major factor in the city's affordability crisis.
They warn that free buses could degrade service, leading to overcrowding and safety issues.
Funding the plan could cost up to $800 million, widening the city’s budget gap.

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Story summary

Mayor Zohran Mamdani proposes making NYC bus rides free to address affordability, a plan he says will help residents.
Critics say bus fares are not a major factor in the city's affordability crisis.
They warn that free buses could degrade service, leading to overcrowding and safety issues.
Funding the plan could cost up to $800 million, widening the city’s budget gap.