On the heels of a series of budget-cutting measures by Memphis Area Transit Authority, U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen reached out to federal administrators in search of additional funding for the cash-strapped transit system to restore routes with a letter on Wednesday, Oct. 2
“I would appreciate any recommendations on how we can strengthen MATA’s funding sources through existing federal programs or new initiatives,” wrote Cohen.
The letter addressed to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Deputy Secretary Polly Trottenberg and Deputy Administrator Veronica Vanterpool follows a recent decision by the MATA board of directors to cut several routes from its bus schedule.
“These cuts will disproportionately impact low-income and vulnerable populations who rely on MATA as their primary means of transportation. Without immediate intervention, further service reductions could devastate the mobility and economic security of many in the Memphis community,” wrote Cohen.
The Sept. 24 vote was preceded by layoffs and role reductions that trimmed MATA’s workforce. In all, 75 positions were eliminated. They included 18 trolley workers, who were let go after a safety “stand down” over a series of brake failures on the historic line.
There are 340 staff members remaining.
“Our goal is to ensure that MATA remains responsive to the needs of the community while optimizing our resources for long-term sustainability. These changes reflect our commitment to enhancing service where it is most needed,” said Michael Fulton, chair of the MATA Board of Commissioners.
The decision to tailor its budget came after a $60 million deficit this year came to light. However, a recent audit revealed eight-figure deficits are the norm. In fact, this year’s shortfall was fairly typical. Over the last 10 years, shortfalls have ranged from $19 million to $91 million.
With the cuts, a $800,000 surplus has been forecast for MATA’s $60 million FY2025 budget.
Largely funded through federal and state grants, MATA’s budgets trended upwards as ARPA funds, for example, flowed in during the pandemic years. However, the rug was pulled out from under the transit authority, when the $180 million fund ran out.
MATA has also been plagued with a steadily decreasing ridership over the years. The pandemic only served to exacerbate the problem.
“I strongly believe our nation must prioritize investments in public transit systems like MATA. Federal assistance is crucial in helping transit agencies meet both operational and infrastructure needs, particularly as they recover from the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and address chronic underfunding,” wrote Cohen.
