The push for an across-the-board increase in O‘ahu bus fares is gaining support at the City Council.
A measure to increase everyone’s cost for riding TheBus this summer moved forward by unanimous vote by the Council’s Budget and Economic Development Committee yesterday. If approved, the increases would be the first since 1995.
Council Chairman Jon Yoshimura has indicated his support the increases.
Single-ride cash fares would increase to $1.50 for adults, 75 cents for students. Monthly passes would be $27 for adults, $13.50 for students.
The council also is proposing new annual fares for regular riders: $300 for adults and $150 for students.
The system is facing a projected shortfall of $5.2 million.
The administration is examining TheBus’ budget to find ways for the system to continue to operate while paying for higher fuel costs, salaries, and increased service, said City Managing Director Ben Lee.
The proposed fare increases would bring in an additional $5.6 million in revenue, but wouldn’t be available in time to ease the current budget crunch.
Council budget chairwoman Rene Mansho said the fare increases will be discussed at a public hearing at 2 p.m. March 14 and at a committee meeting March 21 and would be poised for final passage on April 4. They would go into effect aboard city buses on July 1.
