Click the play button on the video window to the right to see the storyPHOENIX -- After six months in operation, fares for the Valley’s light rail and public buses are about to go up.
The 50-cent price increase takes effect on Wednesday.
That’s a 40 percent price hike.
The $1.4 billion project, with 20 miles of track, debuted on December 27th and seems to be growing in popularity.
The number of riders went from 911,000 in January to over 1 million in April.
Numbers went down in May, but that is attributed in part to the end of classes at Arizona State University.
Nonetheless, the light rail system is facing rising costs and dwindling sales tax revenue and it must meet the goal of reaching 25 percent of its operating cost through ticket money.
As most riders prepare to pay more, Sgt. Dave O'Dell, of the Phoenix Transit Bureau, is making sure they pay at all.
The Phoenix Transit Bureau consists of 12 fare inspectors, six police officers, three sergeants and one lieutenant dedicated to policing the light rail.
Everyday, a mix of them ride the rails asking passengers to show that they have paid.
O'Dell said 97 percent of riders pay.
Those who don't face a citation that costs between $50 and $500.
O'Dell also explained how often during these routine inspections, they will encounter fare evaders who are also wanted for a more serious crime. The unit has picked up several people on outstanding warrants.
When prices jump on Wednesday he expects some people will be caught off guard and perhaps without a ticket.
That is why they are part of an effort to spread the word to riders about the fare hike that begins July 1.
“I use public transportation about 90 percent of the time,” said Larry Barron on Monday morning. He does it to save money and help the environment. “I think they need to keep the prices low for the people who need it and can’t afford the gas.”
Riders can
buy bulk tickets at the current price until Wednesday online or at 150 outlets across the Valley.
This is the first Valley wide fare increase since 1994.
