The Sacramento Regional Transit District (RT) Board of Directors conditionally approved a fare increase at the conclusion of the RT public hearing held on Monday, August 25, 2008. The Board of Directors also conditionally approved various re-balancing strategies, in response to an expected $18 million loss in state funds for Fiscal Year 2009. The final outcome of the state budget, which has yet to be passed, will determine if and when re-balancing strategies would be implemented.
The Board of Directors conditionally approved a fare increase effective January 1, 2009, but may elect to charge the new fares as soon as November 1, 2008. If the loss of state funds exceeds $6.8 million of the expected $11.3 million shortfall, RT staff will return to the Board of Directors to seek approval to amend the RT fare policy.
The Basic fare would increase by 25 cents ($2.25), the Basic daily pass would increase by $1 ($6) and the Basic monthly pass would increase by $15 ($100).
The Board of Directors also conditionally approved the elimination of the Paratransit Group Pass effective November 1, 2008. If the severity of the loss of state funds prompts this action, passengers who qualify for complementary paratransit demand-response service and possess a Paratransit, Inc. photo ID card will no longer be able to ride the RT bus and light rail system free of charge, but can pay the Discount fare.
Additional re-balancing strategies accepted by the Board of Directors include adjustments to fare revenue projections, and reduced staffing levels and a hiring freeze of non-critical positions. An increase in pension amortization levels to 30 years and renegotiation of transfer agreements with connecting transit agencies would require further action by the Board of Directors.
The Board of Directors did not approve RT staff recommendations to reduce bus service, implement a parking fee at park-and-ride lots, or increase the cost of the Paratransit monthly pass. RT staff will need to explore additional cost-cutting measures and revenue generating opportunities to balance the remaining $2 million shortfall.
“RT riders should not be unjustly burdened by the state’s continued raid of funds dedicated for public transit,” Mike Wiley, General Manager/CEO, stated.
