WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Taking the bus around Whatcom County is going to get more expensive next month.
Starting on Sept. 1, WTA is raising the price of a regular fixed route fare from $1 to $2.
The monthly fare cap will also increase from $30 to $60.
While youth ages 18 and under can still ride for free, WTA is ending its free rides for adults ages 75 and older through the Gold Card. Instead, there will be expanded eligibility for riders to receive reduced fair options.
Those include anyone over the age of 65, veterans, students, paratransit eligible riders and those who meet disability or income-based eligibility.
Anyone who falls under those parameters is encouraged to update their card at the WTA Bellingham Station customer service desk on 205 E Magnolia St. before the changes take effect. They need to bring a valid ID and documentation based on what type of reduced fair they are eligible for (Veteran’s Affairs ID, student ID, Social Security Income Eligibility Letter, etc).
According to WTA, fares haven’t risen since 2008, while the cost of offering rides has grown steadily.
Riders can learn more about the fare changes on WTA’s website.
