Hampton Roads Transit OKs fare hike

Hampton Roads Transit's (HRT) board late last week approved fare increases for rail, bus, ferry and paratransit services as part of an ongoing plan to strengthen the agency's finances.

Starting in July, the basic adult cash fare for bus, light rail and ferry trips will increase from $1.50 to $1.75 while the cost of a 1-Day GoPass will increase from $3.50 to $4. Paratransit fares remain unchanged until no later than July 2016, HRT officials said in a press release.

"Raising fares is never taken lightly," said William Harrell, HRT's president and chief executive officer. "We understand how difficult even modest changes to our fares can have on our customers. HRT must improve its financial position in order to provide better service to our customers. This action is one step along that path."