Allegheny County port authority approves FY2017 budget

The Port Authority of Allegheny County's board last week adopted a $413 million operating and $200 million capital budget for fiscal-year 2017.

The budget includes fare policy changes adopted by the board earlier this year and $1.3 million in service expansions, according to a press release issued by the Pittsburgh, Pa.-based authority.

Operating expenses are projected to increase $14.5 million over FY2016's budget primarily due to higher health care and legacy costs. Projected revenue increases include additional advertising revenue and state operating assistance.

The agency's capital budget funds the authority's transit infrastructure, which includes more than 52 miles of light-rail track, nearly 18 miles of busways, and more than 800 buses and light-rail vehicles. The authority also maintains the Monongahela Incline, 79 bridges, and five rail tunnels.