July 2--Although the MBTA spends almost $1 billion a year, only 17% of that money is fares from its riders and the balance comes from taxpayers, 
according to a study by the Beacon Hill Institute. 

One reason given for this is that the MBTA first spends its money each 
year, and then it sends a bill to the state for the balance above and 
beyond its fare revenues. The average Massachusetts taxpayer contributes 
$203 whether he uses the service or not. 

As a result the "T" pays over half of its workers 65% more than other Massachusetts employers do for comparable occupations. It also pays more than transit companies in other states. It pays a "general helper" 
$19.83/hour whereas in New York, a similar employee receives $16.23. A 
"delivery person" receives $21.85 in Boston but only $15.69 in New 
Jersey and $14.38 in Maryland. 
 

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