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Yesterday, the Metrolinx board approved the first fare increase for GO Transit in nearly two years.

“A fare increase this year is necessary to ensure that GO Transit can continue to provide good customer service, expand services and manage increased costs in areas like fuel and hydro,” said Bruce McCuaig, Metrolinx president and chief executive officer, in a prepared statement.

On Feb. 18, the adult single fare will go up incrementally, based on distance traveled. The increases will range from a 30 cents on current fares between $4.20 and $5.50; 35 cents on current fares between $5.51 and $7; and 40 cents on current fares exceeding $7 (in Canadian currency).

The additional revenue will help GO Transit cover existing operating costs and improved services needed for ridership growth, agency officials said. The increase also will help the agency provide riders with new parking spaces, improved communications, well-maintained facilities, improved service reliability, ongoing equipment maintenance, and increased capacity on trains and buses, they said.

During the past year, GO Transit’s service improvements have included:

• the opening of a new Allandale Waterfront GO Station in Barrie;

• station improvements, including accessibility upgrades, better access for pedestrians and cyclists, and weather protection enhancements;

• track infrastructure upgrades resulting in smoother train operations and better reliability; and

• continued rider communication and rider service improvements.