BEGIN:VCALENDAR PRODID;X-RICAL-TZSOURCE=TZINFO:-//com.denhaven2/NONSGML ri_cal gem//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN VERSION:2.0 BEGIN:VEVENT DESCRIPTION:Brookline has a sizeable population of elders and people with disabilities\, with 12% of Brookline residents over the age of 65.  \; Frank Caro\, co-founder and chair of BrooklineCAN&rsquo\;s Livable Co mmunity committee\, notes\, &ldquo\;Transportation is one of the most im portant factors for older people to remain independent\, meet the obliga tions of daily life\, and avoid becoming isolated.&rdquo\;\nHe adds\, &l dquo\;Older people live in Brookline for many reasons\, including the ab ility to get around without a car. Elders and people with disabilities r ely on public transport to a greater extent than the general public. Old er people are being singled out for dramatic increases in fares. In its proposal emphasizing fare increases\, the MBTA proposes an increase of 1 75% for seniors compared to an increase of 40% for other adults. The pro posed cuts will be devastating to the many older people who live on fixe d incomes. The MBTA has provided no rationale for placing a much greater burden on older riders.&rdquo\; \; In addition\, he notes\, the MBT A proposes not only to increase fares for seniors but also for the RIDE and to restrict eligibility through a more severe screening process. The RIDE provides door-to-door service to 62 cites and towns in lift-equipp ed vehicles for eligible customers who cannot use subways\, buses\, or t rains due to a physical\, mental\, or cognitive disability. \; \ ; \; \; \;\nBudget and policy analyst for the MBTA Advisory Board Brian Kane and local legislators will attend the forum. Kane is no t an employee of the MBTA. BrooklineCAN encourages anyone concerned abou t public transportation availability in Brookline to attend this forum. You may also send your comments to fareproposal@mbta.com by March 1. URL:http://brookline.patch.com/events/forum-to-discuss-mbta-impact-on-sen iors SUMMARY:Forum to discuss MBTA impact on Seniors LOCATION:Brookline Senior Center: 93 Winchester St\, Brookline\, MA END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR