A couple dozen people showed up at the Marriott City Center this morning for a public hearing to voice concerns over the Port Authority's plans to eliminate some routes and raise fares.

Many were worried that their bus route will be gone under a transit plan set to go into place next year.

"The demand for the bus is significant," said Melanie Steven-Cosnek about the 13G route in Ross, which is among those that could be eliminated. "Please keep the 13G."

The Port Authority's plan will cut underused and inefficient routes and stops to streamline the system while increasing fares to raise $4 million needed for next year's operating budget.

The hearing started at 8 a.m. and will end at 8 p.m. The light turnout wasn't a surprise because many riders have voiced their concerns on the authority's online forum, in e-mails or in phone calls. In addition, said spokesman Jim Ritchie, the authority has already addressed many groups directly about the changes and in many cases worked out solutions over the past two years.

The public has until Sept. 30 to make comments.

First Published: September 15, 2009, 6:15 p.m.