There are always people waiting at the bus stop at Sixth Street and Congress Avenue in downtown Austin. It's where Michael O’Keefe waits everyday for his bus. He thinks even though bus fares are going up he's still getting a good deal.
“I think you're getting a good service for a good price,” said O’Keefe. “Even with the fare increase you're still getting a good deal.”
But not every bus passenger feels the same way.
“I really feel it’s unfortunate,” said Addie Anderson. “One day I am able to get everywhere I need to go for a really decent rate and now it's going to go up even further.”
Capital Metro's Board of Directors approved a bus fare increase in November. It takes effect Monday, January 18th, 2010.
The cost for a single ride on the bus jumps from 75 cents to one dollar.
The express service jumps from $1.50 to $2.50 Monthly bus passes increase from $18 to $28.
The fare increase is part of a long range financial sustainability plan to help cap metro lessen the rising costs of providing public transportation.
“Even with the increase that takes effect, we still have one of the lowest fares in the country,” said Adam Shavitiz, Capital Metro Communication Director.
Rates will also increase for Capital Metro's Rail-Line which is still delayed with no official start date.Fares were set at $1 that's now doubled to $2. Monthly rail passes go from $36 to $70.
"I think it's ridiculous," said passenger Dawn Robinson. “What are they doing with our money? It seems they are just playing around with it.”
Back at Sixth and Congress at the bus stop, Michael O'Keefe says there are alternatives to riding the bus and paying the increase.
“If you don't like it get a better job buy a car,” said O’Keefe.
Seniors, the disabled, and Medicare cardholders will continue to ride for free.
