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Yesterday, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (GCRTA) unveiled a proposed $236.4 million operating and $156.1 million capital budget for 2006.

The operating budget would increase 6.3 percent compared with 2005 to cover rising payroll, health care, fuel, natural gas and electricity costs. The capital budget includes funds to renovate several stations and overhaul light-rail vehicles.

The operating budget doesn’t propose a fare increase, but early next year GCRTA plans to compare the cost of a ride with current fare prices.

The authority also plans to develop strategies to increase revenue, productivity and efficiency, such as by expanding a transit advertising program and implementing new technology.

GCRTA’s board is expected to adopt the budget at its Dec. 20 meeting.