WMATA preps for fare hikes, rail service cuts

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) next month will increase fares and reduce service on its Metrorail system.

Peak period fares will rise 10 cents, while off-peak fares will increase 25 cents, effective June 25. The agency charges passengers based on a distance traveled; the new minimum fare for rides during peak hours will be $2.25, with a maximum of $6.

The minimum cost for an off-peak ride will grow to $2, while the maximum will rise to $3.85.

In addition, WMATA is adjusting Metrorail hours to provide eight hours of track access per week for safety and service improvements, agency officials said in a press release.

The system will close at 11:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and at 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. WMATA already had been closing the rail system at midnight to carry out its "SafeTrack" maintenance plan.

WMATA's board earlier this year approved the changes as part of an effort to "rightsize service, close a budget gap and provide needed time for new categories of preventive maintenance to improve safety and reliability," agency officials said.