Petition filed against Metro Fare Increases

A complaint challenging fare hikes -- set to go into effect July 1 -- was brought againt Metro on Tuesday by three nonprofits.

The petition was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court by the National Resources Defense Council, the Labor/Community Strategy Center and its smaller operation called the Bus Riders Union.

The groups maintain Metro did not consider environmental effects of fare increases, which they contend will force many commuters back into their cars and contribute to air pollution.

The petitioners are seeking a court order blocking the fares and scheduled bus service reductions from taking effect without a complete environmental review following guidelines set by the California Environmental Quality Act.

A hearing is set for 8:30 a.m. Wednesday before Judge James C. Chalfant at 111 N. Hill St., Dept. 13. in downtown Los Angeles.

Metro spokesman Marc Littman said the agency was not required to prepare an environmental impact report.