Whatcom Transportation Authority’s Board of Directors approved the fare increases on Thursday, December 11.
Changes will go into effect on September 1, 2026
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
- Reduced Fare Monthly Fare Cap: $30
Who rides for free?
- Youth 18 and under
- Personal Care Assistants (accompanying riders with disabilities)
Who qualifies for Fixed Route reduced fares?
- 65+
- Paratransit eligible
- Veterans
- Those who meet disability or income-based eligibility
- Students
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.
