As reported in the Seattle Times, Sound Transit is considering fare increases on express busses this June and again next year. It would also reduce the service zones from five to three (one zone per county).
This would mean Sound Transit trips within a county would be $2.50 for an adult fare and $3.50 if traveling to another county. Because there would be no zone change over Lake Washington, Seattle to Eastside trips would be in one zone and thus remain $2.50. Youth, senior and disabled fares would also change under the proposal.
Current fares are heavily subsidized by government sales taxes and federal grants. Fares cover approximately 20 percent of express bus operating costs and the increase will add $400,000 per month to Sound Transit’s budget. King County Metro increased fares by 25 cents per trip the past two years to offset decreased sales tax revenue.
Sound Transit will have a public hearing on the increase in April. Readers: Do you support Sound Transit raising it’s fares to be able to continue to provide the same levels of transit service? Share your comments below.
-Michael
