Montreal transit agency to hike fares July 1

The Societe de transport de Montreal (STM) will raise fares beginning July 1.

The cost of a monthly fare pass will increase $1 to $83 (in Canadian dollars), while the price of weekly "Hebdo" passes will rise 75 cents to $25.75.

However, the agency upheld a freeze on single trip and two-trip fare, as well as on one- and three-day passes and unlimited evening fare.

The smallest change in fares since 1998, the adjustments are on average lower than the consumer price index for the last 12 months, STM officials said in a press release.

The agency's monthly fares also are among the lowest in North America, according to the release.