Not only are subway riders facing the possibility of higher fares, they are now facing the possibility of massive cuts – we’re talking the elimination of entire lines here – as part of a worst-case scenario contingency plan if some solution to the agency’s financial woes can’t be found.

They could see the elimination of the W and Z lines, as well as a cut to G and M line service and elimination of the J express. (First off, cutting service to the G line is like cutting playing time the Knicks are giving to Stephon Marbury. How can you cut it any more when it’s already so absurdly low?)

We know from recent history that when MTA services are cut, it is noticeable by nearly all riders, no matter where and when they take the train or bus. Trains and buses become more crowded and commute times go up.

So, what do we do, just sit back and take it?

Peter Vallone, the Astoria councilman, has been quick to criticize a possible elimination of the W line, which runs through the heart of his district. Really, 100,000 people take the W train every day.

This is what happens when the people who make decisions on this are out of touch. Sure, it seems like overkill to have three different trains stopping at the same series of stops in Manhattan. But when you take those trains to the end of their lines in the outer boroughs you realize their necessity.