The Metropolitan Transportation Authority, parent to the Long Island Railroad (LIRR) and operator of bridges, tunnels and EZ-Pass in the metropolitan New York region, will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, November 9, 2004 at 4 p.m. on proposals to curtail service and maintenance, close existing stations and lines, and increase fares, tolls and fees. Even those who do not ride the rails would feel the impact of the MTA's proposals, which include an increase in tolls on MTA bridges and tunnels as well as a $1 per month surcharge on all MTA EZ-Pass accounts. The hearing will take place at the Long Island Hilton in Huntington, 598 Broad Hollow Road, Melville, NY, and public comment is encourgaged.

Representatives from the West Hempstead Civic Association plan on attending the hearing.

Senator Dean Skelos began a rider's campaign in August to save Long Island Rail Road service scheduled for elimination and prevent fare increases proposed by the MTA in its July Financial Plan for 2005-2008.

The public hearing will begin at 4 p.m. on November 9 with registration open until 8 p.m.