New Haven, Shore Line East fare hikes take effect Jan. 1

Fares on the New Haven Line and Shore Line East in Connecticut will increase 1 percent on Thursday, the Connecticut Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced last week.

As part of legislation enacted to have passengers contribute toward the cost of the new M-8 rail cars entering service on the lines, rail fares are being increased 1 percent across all categories, including weekly and monthly combined bus and rail tickets, CDOT officials said in a press release. The legislation also calls for additional 1 percent increases to take effect Jan. 1 in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

Of the 405 M-8 rail cars ordered, 391 have been delivered. All 405 are expected to enter service in February 2015. Although currently in service only on the New Haven Line, the M-8 cars also will be used on Shore Line East.