Transportation into Boston from Brandeis, often made easy by a convenient train ride, may soon be complicated by proposed service changes. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, which provides a network of transportation services into and around the Boston area, is considering significant cutbacks and fare hikes across its entire system.

A section found at the center of the MBTA homepage, titled "Join the Discussion," highlights the facts and figures relating to the deficit and possible service changes. The MBTA is faced with a $185-million deficit and no simple way to increase revenue, according to the website.

Micaela Preskill '10, a consumer associate at the Massachusetts Public Interest Research Group who has worked on a campaign against the fare hikes, said "Fare hikes and service cuts are not the only options. … Next year, the MBTA will face an even-larger budget shortfall, close to a quarter of a million dollars. Our transportation system cannot be maintained or improved without new sources of funding."

The MBTA published a comprehensive document this month, highlighting two separate proposals for consideration. According to the document, "Scenario 1 includes a higher fare increase and a smaller number of service reductions. Scenario 2 includes a slightly lower fare increase but larger service reductions."

The fare hike scenario would leave the MBTA with the second-most expensive single-fare subway ride in the nation. New York's MetroCard, the most expensive in the country, currently costs $2.50.

According to its website, the MBTA serves nearly five million people annually and is the nation's fifth-largest transportation system.

Fares may rise as high as $2.40 per ride for the T, and as high as $7 for the Fitchburg line commuter rail service into Boston from the Brandeis/Roberts station.

Either way, proposed changes will include the elimination of weekend commuter rail service into Boston and weekday service after 10:00 p.m.

"It would have a pretty disabling effect. … It would be partially isolating, limiting our routes to get into Boston," said Student Union President Herbie Rosen '12. Last week, students received an email from Rosen detailing the proposed cuts. 

Students on campus have had mixed reactions to the proposed cuts.

Neriman Cavdar '15 said of the commuter rail schedule, "The times are already scattered. … If they cut that, you'll have to come earlier to school or leave later."

Abby Zadina '13 said, "Their service is already a hindrance to getting out and seeing Boston. … If they really want to make money, they should consider offering more services. … Increasing fares is fine by me."

The University has taken no immediate action in response to the proposed cuts, though Rosen speculated, "Riverside shuttles may soon become an option that we need to consider."

Transportation to the Riverside station would provide students with access to Boston via the Green Line, an option less efficient than the commuter rail.

Last semester, in response to pressure from the Student Union, the University experimented with a trial run of a Riverside shuttle. Low student turnout for the trial runs, combined with the high cost of running the shuttles, made the option ineffectual.

"The MBTAs public review process has just begun so it is premature to develop a specific Brandeis plan for alternative transportation for our students, faculty and staff," wrote Senior Vice President for External Affairs and Communications Andrew Gully in an email to the Justice.

"Representatives from Brandeis will attend the public meeting in Waltham and we will carefully monitor developments as the T finalizes its plans. As the picture becomes clear, we will weigh our options and students will be a part of that process."

In response to the proposed cuts, the Student Union is planning, among other things, to draft a petition expressing the community's concerns, as well as a town hall-style meeting.

"We'll get students to sound off on what they think should be said on behalf of the student body. … Our voices need to be heard," said Rosen.

The MBTA has organized 22 town hall-style meetings across the area. The meeting in Waltham will take place March 1 at the Government Center Auditorium from 6 to 8 p.m.