The TTC orginally proposed reductions in service on 48 bus routes. (CBC)

The Toronto Transit Commission plans to hold public meetings to get feedback on proposed service reductions.

Earlier in January, the TTC proposed a fare increase of 10 cents per ride in its 2011 budget to partly make up for a $24-million shortfall. Some of the deficit was also to be recouped from reduced service on bus routes during periods the TTC said transit was sparsely used.

The commission said 48 routes would be affected — but gave little time for the ridership to comment.

The 10-cent fare hike was scrapped two days after it was proposed when the city vowed to increase TTC funding by $16 million. However, there is still an $8-million shortfall that needs to be found within the TTC budget.

During a special board meeting, the commission decided to delay the implementation of service reductions and allow time for public comments.

On Wednesday, the TTC issued a news release saying that public meetings will be held across the city from Jan. 24-27, in advance of the next commission meeting in early February.

"These four meetings will give the public an opportunity to see details of which routes are proposed to be reallocated, alternate routes that customers can use, and an understanding of why the TTC is proposing these changes," the release said.

Meetings will take place at these locations:

• Jan. 24, Metro Hall — 7-9 p.m.
• Jan. 25, North York Central Library — 7-9 p.m.
• Jan. 26, Scarborough Civic Centre — 7-9 p.m.
• Jan. 27, Elmbank Community Centre — 7-9 p.m.

Any changes to bus routes wouldn't take effect until May.