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Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) officials yesterday unveiled a $1.6 billion preliminary budget for fiscal-year 2014.

The agency will solicit public feedback on the budget during meetings to be held May 9 and 23, and June 13, BART officials said in a press release.

The proposed budget covers BART's operating and capital budget, and assumes a 10 percent increase in the number of weekday riders versus two years ago. The budget also calls for continued investment in ongoing improvement programs, including overhauling rail-car interiors with new seats and floors, adding secured bike parking and reducing train noise.

In addition, the budget proposes resources to improve the appearance, cleanliness and environment of stations.

"This overview was just the first step in the budget process and I look forward to robust discussion with public input to ensure our priorities are in line with what the public would like to see from BART," President Tom Radulovich said.