City weighing first transit fare hike since 2014

BC Transit estimates that Option 1 would bring in about $157,000 more each year for the next two years, an 8 percent increase, but could lead to a loss of nearly 36,000 rides each year. Option 2 would add about $62,000 in the first year and would likely mean a smaller drop in ridership, with fewer than 10,000 rides lost.

The push to raise fares comes as the transit system faces tighter finances. Right now, Prince George covers only 20 percent of its operating costs through fares, which is lower than the 28 percent median for similar B.C. systems. Each passenger trip costs $5.37 to run, compared with a median of $4.60 elsewhere. Proposed hikes, the report notes, would keep Prince George’s fares below the national average. The national single-ride fare was $3.50 in 2023, according to a Canadian Urban Transit Association dashboard cited in the report.

The report also suggests launching a new EcoPASS program that would allow employers and event venues to purchase transit credits in bulk for residents, employees, or guests. It also recommends more promotion for the current ProPASS program.

workplace transit program, which has seen limited employer uptake despite offering a 15 percent discount on monthly passes.

Custom transit fares for HandyDART would rise in step with conventional fares to maintain consistency between the two services.

Any approved changes would require at least 16 weeks’ notice before taking effect. Council must still decide which option to adopt, along with the report’s other recommendations, including discontinuing tickets and approving updated U-PASS and ProPASS pricing.

by Dave Branco

City weighing first transit fare hike since 2014

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