We’re asking riders, partners, and community members to review the proposal and share their thoughts.
Why is WTA considering a fare increase?
- WTA fares have not increased since 2008
- Like most transit agencies, the cost of providing service (buses, fuel, wages, utilities) has steadily risen over the years.
What are the proposed new fares?
- Fixed Route (bus): $2 per ride
- Reduced Fare: $1
- Paratransit: $3 per ride
- Daily Fare Cap: $6
- Monthly Fare Cap: $60
Who rides for free?
- Youth 18 and under
- Personal Care Assistants (accompanying riders with disabilities)
Who qualifies for Fixed Route reduced fares?
- Riders with disabilities
- Riders 65+
- Veterans
Other than fares going up, what else is changing?
- Day and monthly passes will be replaced with fare capping.
- Pay per ride, but never more than the daily or monthly fare cap with your Umo pass or bank card.
- Fare capping applies across all services.
- More Ways to Pay: Use a Umo pass or tap your own bank card at the farebox.
- Gold Cards would give half-price rides on Fixed Route for riders 65+, people with disabilities, veterans, paratransit-eligible riders, and others who qualify for reduced fare.
How do WTA’s fares compare?
Most transit agencies in Washington and its surrounding regions charge between $2 and $3 for a standard adult fare. WTA’s proposed $2 fare would keep us in line with neighboring systems.
In Washington State, typical monthly Fixed Route and Paratransit fare caps are $60 to $90.
