The Regional Transit is an asset to many people who live and work in Rancho Cordova.  This summer the Transit saw more riders than ever before as gas prices sky rocketed and the major construction on Interstate 5 caused commuting difficulties.  The ongoing construction of a bridge for the Transit on Watt and Folsom testifies to its’ convenience and increased usage.

On August 25th the Sacramento Regional Transit District Board of Directors conditionally approved a fare increase. This comes as a dire necessity to the Regional Transit’s budget as there is to be an expected $18 million loss in state funds for the 2009 fiscal year. The rate increase is one of many precautionary measures including a series of rebalancing strategies that will be determined as the state budget is finalized.  Reduced staffing levels, a hiring freeze of non-critical positions and a renegotiation of transfer agreements with connecting transit agencies are a few of the rebalancing strategies that have been discussed.

The Board of Directors has approved the fare increase to be effective as of January 1, 2009, but may choose to implament the changes as soon as November 2, 2008, again based on the finalized state budget. If the loss of state funds exceeds $6.8 million,  the Board of Directors will be asked to amend the Regional Transit fare more quickly.

The new policy will raise the basic fare by 25 cents from $2.00 to $2.25. Discount fare, city fare, shuttle service fare and transfer fees will all increase anywhere from $.05 to $.25. Daily passes would cost $6, up from the current $5 charge. To see more detailed pricing, please see the official website.

The Board of Directors also conditionally passed the elimination of the Paratransit Group Pass. This decision will become effective as of November 1, 2008. If the loss of state funds requires this action, passengers who qualify for the free of charge paratransit demand-response service and possess a Paratransit photo I.D. card will no longer be able to ride the bus and light rail system free of charge, but will be able to pay the discounted fee.

The Regional Transit Board of Directors did not approve the Regional Transit Staff recommendations of reducing bus services or implementing a parking fee at park and ride lots.