Transit Agency Finds 36-Million To Make Up For Budget Shortfall

(Washington, DC) -- Metro transit officials are planning to use as much as 36-million dollars in federal stimulus funds and inaugural reimbursements to fill a budget gap for this fiscal year. The "Washington Post" reports the transit agency also plans to use insurance money and additional savings from the way it processes payroll and collects revenues to help fill the gap. Much of the transit agency's financial woes is due to declining ridership. A report on ridership in September showed an even further decline, due in part to rising unemployment in the District and slower service on the Red Line. A much bigger budget gap looms for next fiscal year and Metro is already considering raising fares to help offset the losses.