RT Board Approves Fare and Service Changes
Fare Increases and Service Reductions Effective September 2009

The Sacramento Regional Transit District (RT) Board of Directors approved fare and service changes, following a fare change public hearing held on Monday, June 22, 2009. In an effort to close the gap on a projected $9 million budget deficit for Fiscal Year 2010, RT will implement fare changes effective Tuesday, September 1, 2009, and service changes effective Sunday, September 6, 2009.

The RT Board of Directors approved nine of the 11 staff-recommended service changes. Routes 54 and 65 were removed from consideration. Routes 63 and 83 were added to the list of service changes. The RT Board of Directors approved increases to the Basic fare, Discount fare and Paratransit single fare; and the elimination of the Central City fares, Shuttle fares and transfers, which will require passengers to pay the Basic or Discount fare for each trip. The basic fare was raised to $2.50.

There was no increase to the cost of the daily pass and monthly pass, which allow unlimited use, including transfers. The elimination of the Lifetime Pass, which allows free fare for passengers age 75 and over, was approved; however, passengers who currently possess a Lifetime Pass will be allowed to continue to use the pass beyond September 1. All other seniors would be required to pay the Discount fare. RT staff will develop a recommendation for a “Super Senior” discount fare for implementation on September 1.

The RT Board of Directors approved the fare increase for the Paratransit monthly pass, but did not approve limiting the number of rides. RT is managing the complete elimination of State Transit Assistance funds through Fiscal Year 2013 and a projected $24 million loss of local sales tax revenue for Fiscal Year 2010 by continuing to control labor and non-labor costs, and identify additional sources of revenue to absorb this shortfall. Approved fare and service changes will save approximately $4 million.

“The RT Board of Directors were faced with very difficult decisions that will affect how people travel for work, school, medical appointments and other purposes,” Mike Wiley, General Manager/CEO, stated. “RT staff has worked hard to minimize the negative impacts on our riders.”

The RT Board of Directors also approved setting a public hearing for July 27 to consider further service reductions for January 2010, if necessary, as an option that could potentially save $1 million. For route, schedule and fare information, call 916-321-BUSS (2877) or visit www.sacrt.com.