The proposed increase, to begin Oct. 1, is meant to offset the skyrocketing price of diesel fuel, said County Executive Ron Sims, who announced the plan Thursday morning.
It would be the second fare increase this year. Metro raised prices a quarter in March to catch up with inflation. Before that, fares hadn't gone up since 2001.
If approved, the new fares would be $2 for a single-zone ride at peak times, or $2.50 for a two-zone trip across the Seattle city limits.
Monthly passes would rise $9 a month, while employer-subsidized FlexPasses would increase 12 to 15 percent. Youth fares of 75 cents and senior fares of 50 cents would stay the same. Access van rides for people with disabilities would increase a quarter, to $1. People who already have a yearly pass can keep using them, without paying a surcharge, said Jill Krecklow, county transportation finance manager.
Regardless of the fare increase, Metro is a good deal.
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