In a public virtual hearing this morning, the Connecticut Department of Transportation heard from residents on the proposed changes to the public transportation in Connecticut.

The changes for train services include adjustments to Metro-North routes, schedules and fare increases.

A Metro-North peak one-way ticket from Stamford to Grand Central would increase from $15.25 to $16, and a one-way from New Haven to Grand Central would be $24.50.

Officials stated a total of 21 train times would be suspended in cuts to the New Haven, New Canaan, Danbury and Shoreline East lines.

"This cut of almost 25% of trains is not beneficial to our growing economy," said one resident at the meeting.

Officials say the cuts are a result of the state's budget.

The proposal stems from the DOT's Service and Fare Equity Analysis, also known as SAFE.

Several residents who use Metro-North expressed concerns with the changes.

DOT officials said rail ridership in the northern part of the state has increased but has not changed in southern Connecticut.

The public has until Friday, Oct. 4 to express concerns to the DOT.

If the proposed changes are approved, they will go into effect on Oct. 29.