WASHINGTON -- The new general manager of D.C.'s Metro rail and bus system said Monday that he wants to do try all other options for cutting costs before suggesting any fare increases.

General manager John Catoe said he will complete a review of the agency to improve rail and bus service before making any decisions.

More rapid bus routes, better scheduling and safer parking lots are all part of the overhaul of Metro that new Catoe said he wants to see.

A native of Washington but new to the Metro job by way of the Los Angeles Transit System, Catoe said he has an ambitious plan to review Metro safety by next month and to slash a $116 million operating deficit by April by reviewing all system services.

But whatever the changes, Catoe told Washington Post Radio that fare increases should be last on the list and that a small across-the-board increase is better than raising just rush hour fares.

Catoe said he also wants to dramatically increase the places that customers can buy fare cards, such as libraries and shopping centers, to encourage more riders.

Catoe has been riding the Metro transit system to work after making a previous vow. He said, however, that he has not yet rode the bus system to work.