Rate hike isn’t guaranteed for public transit riders

NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - It’s unclear whether public transit riders will face a rate hike this fall.

The Daily Press reports (https://bit.ly/2mx6wCk) that Hampton Roads Transit may reconsider a plan to increase fares. It would take effect in October and raise the price 25 cents to $2.00.

The agency took a big financial hit last year because of declines in bus ridership. And the shortfall forced HRT to ask six member cities for payments totaling $5.3 million.

But local officials are concerned a fare increase would turn away more people. President and chief executive William Harrell says he will take a second look at the rate increase plan.

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Information from: Daily Press, https://www.dailypress.com/