Proposed Transit Fare Hike Approved

Sonora, CA — While the Tuolumne County supervisors demonstrated great empathy toward seniors and the disabled who travel by transit, they nevertheless voted in favor of the proposed fare increases this morning.

Deputy Director of Transportation Darrin Grossi says the basic fixed rate will increase from $1 to $1.50. Discounted tickets for those with Medicare or A.D.A. certification will increase to $1 from $.75.

The base ticket on the Dollar Ride System will increase from $2 to $3. Monthly passes and other ticket books will also be affected.

Still another change will see the age for seniors on the Dollar Ride program increase from 55 to 60. However Grossi adds that those with mobility impairment can still be eligible for $1 ride with A.D.A. certification.

Grossi says, “We have had no increase in fares since 1997. Since that time our operating expense has increased 42 percent. In addition the state has cut our transit operating assistance budget by over $230,000 this year. And finally we have to maintain an accepted ratio of revenue to operational costs and right now we are too close to the minimum and in some areas we are below it. That could cause the state to request us to reduce services and we know our riders don’t want that.”

One non “dollar and cents” issue deals with service which will now end at 7pm.

The fare increases and change in service time will take effect August 17.