MADISON — Madison Metro Transit is grappling with nearly a $6 million budget shortfall that has forced the city to more than double its transit subsidy and implement emergency spending restrictions.

The transit system's initial 2025 budget called for a $18.4 million in planned spending. However, fare revenue fell short of projections while salary and benefit costs increased following a new contract with the union representing bus drivers. Operational costs also exceeded expectations.

Jamie Acton, Metro's general manager announced a non-essential spending freeze Monday to address the financial crisis.

"Effective, just on Monday, I put in a non-essential spending freeze. So non-essential spending is anything that isn't related to safety, security, keeping the busses in a well-maintained

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