With Ridership Up, Transit Agencies Make Cuts

WASHINGTON (AP) - Judging from packed buses and trains, these would appear to be prosperous times for the nation's transit systems, which have seen record ridership since last summer's high gas prices.

But with the economy deteriorating, the problem is no longer how to handle more riders. Instead, agencies are facing substantial service cuts, fare hikes and layoffs, which could chase passengers away.

Some subway lines in New York, the nation's busiest system, could be eliminated in the coming months. St. Louis is cutting bus service by nearly half. And Washington's transit agency is preparing to slash nearly 900 jobs.

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