A fare increase to $1.50 for suburban bus riders edged closer Wednesday when Pace’s board voted after little debate to hold hearings March 3 at eight locations.
The increase would be the second in little more than a year. Fares were raised in January 2000 to $1.25 from $1.15.
“It’s necessary to balance our 2001 budget and meet our required 40 percent farebox recovery rate,” Pace spokesman Blaine Krage said.
An increase has been on the table since late last year, when Pace officials said the cost of diesel fuel and natural gas had increased.
They failed to dissuade the Regional Transportation Authority from insisting that 40 percent of Pace’s costs be covered by fares. Pace officials believe the number is too high. The RTA subsidizes the suburban service.
A $1.50 fare would put Pace on par with the Chicago Transit Authority, which charges $1.50. Roughly half of Pace’s ridership transfers between Pace and the CTA.
If the increase is approved, the price of Pace’s monthly 30-day pass, called the Commuter Club Card, would rise to $50 from $39.
Hearings will be held at 10 a.m. March 3 in the village halls of Skokie, Markham, Forest Park, South Elgin, the College of DuPage (Building K), the Highland Park Public Library, McHenry County College (Room B-168) and the Joliet YMCA.