CUNY students demand funding for free MetroCards to combat transportation barrier

CUNY students are advocating for crucial transit support as they face significant barriers to attending classes. During a recent NYC Council budget hearing, students highlighted the pressing need for free MetroCards to alleviate transportation costs that hinder their education.

Akeem Polak, a student at York College and vice chair for legislative affairs for the University Student Senate, emphasized that over 200,000 CUNY students rely on public transportation, with many struggling to afford the monthly fare of $132. He shared alarming statistics: 64% of students worry about transit costs, 53% have skipped meals to pay for fares, and over 70% have been late or missed classes due to financial constraints. These challenges not only affect attendance but also jeopardize students' academic performance and graduation rates.

The proposed budget includes a $500,000 allocation for a pilot program to provide free MetroCards for all CUNY students. This initiative aims to remove financial barriers and ensure that students can access their education without the stress of transportation costs. Polak and fellow advocates argue that this investment is essential for equity, particularly for low-income and first-generation students who are disproportionately affected.

Davia Willis, an international student from Jamaica, echoed these sentiments, stressing that reliable access to transportation is vital for all students to benefit from the resources available at CUNY. She called on the council to prioritize the MetroCard requests, highlighting that without transportation, students cannot fully engage in their education.

The discussions at the hearing reflect a growing recognition of the importance of addressing transportation issues as a means to support student success. As the council considers the budget, the voices of CUNY students underscore the urgent need for action to ensure that all students have the opportunity to thrive in their academic pursuits.