Friday, September 13, 2013 (Halifax, NS) – Effective September 30, 2013, Metro Transit will be increasing fares, as part of the 2013-2014 budget approved by Regional Council on April 30, 2013.

The fare increase will help provide for investment in transit technology and infrastructure. Upgrades in technology, such as a new AVL system, will significantly improve Metro Transit’s ability to offer real time bus location information, make data driven decisions on transit planning and scheduling, and in later years add such capabilities as automated stop annunciation (electronic announcement of bus stop). The budget will also allow for the expansion and maintenance of transit infrastructure, including nine new conventional expansion buses, 13 replacement buses, a new passenger ferry to be placed into service in May 2014, and updates to transit terminals and shelters. Residents will see expansion of the Woodside Ferry service, along with new bus routes, improvements to existing routes and Access-A-Bus expansion.

The adult cash fare will go from $2.25 to $2.50. However, there are changes to the entire fee structure and residents are encouraged to go to www.halifax.ca/metrotransit/farestructuresept2013.html for a complete listing.

Metro Transit has grown significantly over the past decade, now serving over 25 million riders annually. With the fare increase, the first since 2009, Metro Transit’s fares will be consistent with or below most other cities of similar size including Windsor, Regina, Laval and Victoria. Raising the fare should eliminate the need to increase the transit tax rate during the next three years.

For more information on Metro Transit rates and information, please visit: http://www.halifax.ca/metrotransit.

Source: Release