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G is for greenbacks, baby.

It's been a long, mean winter for the MTA. In 2010, the agency's budget woes led to a 7.5 percent fare increase, 1,000 lost jobs, and draconian service cuts across the boroughs. In 2011, Governor Cuomo reached an agreement with unions to freeze wages, and 2012 got by, barely, without cuts or hikes.

But now for some good news: 2013 is looking way, way better. And as the Voice's John Surico mentioned last month, there's even a little unexpected cash involved--the 2013-2014 budget passed in Albany surpassed the MTA's expectations by some sweet $40 million. Now, the obvious question: How the hell do we spend it?

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A few months ago, we learned that the MTA would bow to the demands of everyone and finally take a look at the dreaded G train. You know, the Crosstown Express, the green one, the one that comes whenever the hell it wants. A full line review and decision will come in July and, if yesterday's news is any sign, there's no better time for this subway to get a makeover.

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[UPDATE, February 22nd]

Looks like the public campaign by State Senator Daniel Squadron and others to refocus attention on the increasingly popular G train worked in the end.

According to the Daily News, the MTA has agreed to conduct a Full Line Review of the green line in an attempt to make the line run faster and smoother. A spokesman from Mr. Squadron's office informed the Voice that the judgement call for improvement will come some time in July.

Here's a statement from the Senator on the matter:

"G train riders spoke. Now, this Full Line Review will give us real answers to lead to real changes," said Senator Daniel Squadron. "Working together in the past, we've made dramatic improvements throughout the system -- including first-of-their-kind Full Line Reviews that led to better F and L train service. The MTA deserves great credit for its willingness to continue working together toward the reliable service G train riders deserve. Thank you to Senator Dilan, our colleagues, and the Riders Alliance for their continued advocacy."

South Brooklyners, rejoice!

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On the afternoon of November 19, cops say this guy grabbed a woman's property on the G train platform in Williamsburg and split. The video shows him in flight. They describe him as 15 to 18 years old, 5'5", wearing blue jeans, a blue jacket, and white sneakers at the time.

If you have info, NYPD asks that you call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477)., or visit WWW.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM, or text to 274637 (CRIMES) and then enter TIP577.