SacRT board OKs 10 percent fare hike

The Sacramento Regional Transit District's (SacRT) board has approved a 10 percent fare increase, effective July 1.

The board's action comes in response to a $2.7 million budget deficit projected for fiscal year 2016, agency officials said in a press release.

The cost of a basic single fare will increase from $2.50 to $2.75, while basic monthly passes will rise from $100 to $110.

SacRT staff presented an initial fare change proposal at a Jan. 25 meeting. Following a 30-day public comment period and extensive customer feedback, the agency then presented a two-phase fare proposal to the board March 14.

Public comment indicated that two smaller fare increases spread out over time were preferred, SacRT officials said.

The board did not approve a second phase for the fare increases. Agency staff was directed to return to the board with additional research and options for consideration.