VRE to hike fares as of July 1

Virginia Railway Express (VRE) fares are slated to increase 4 percent beginning July 1, the agency announced yesterday.

Expected to generate $900,000 in additional revenue for the 2016 fiscal year, the fare hike will address increased operating costs associated with positive train control, train operations, maintenance and expanded service, VRE officials said.

The increased service includes the opening of the Spotsylvania Station and the addition of a new Fredericksburg Line train.

Additionally, the price of Amtrak Step-Up tickets will increase from $3 to $5. The cost of VRE's Transit Link Card will also increase.

The fare increase follows a series of public hearings in February and March.