As predicted, Metro’s board of directors approved a host of fare increases today, which, according to Dr. Gridlock, are the most sweeping in WMATA history. Jim Graham cast the only dissenting vote against the increases, the first of which go into effect this Sunday. The remaining increases will be rolled out on August 1 and later in the fall.
As of next week, you will see peak average peak Metrorail fares rise from $1.65 to $1.95, and Metrobus boarding fare increasing from $1.25 to $1.50 for SmarTrip users, and from $1.35 to $1.70 for riders paying with cash. Starting August 1, an additional 20 cents will be charged for those riding between 7:30 and 9 a.m., and 4:30 and 6 p.m. MetroAccess fixed fare rates will double, with a $7 price cap.
In another attempt to close the $189 million gap in their budget, WMATA has approved DVD rental machines (from two different distribution companies, NRC/Blockbuster and Movie Solution) in certain Metro stations. In addition, Old Town Trolley tour tickets will be sold in kiosks at both entrances to the Smithsonian station. The space will earn Metro an estimated $928,000 over an eight-year period with guaranteed revenue of $116,000 in the first year. Stop by for a movie on your way home at the following stations starting this fall:
» Gallery Pl-Chinatown (Verizon Center entrance)
» Metro Center
» Pentagon City
» Farragut North (K Street entrance)
» Farragut West (17th Street entrance)
» Foggy Bottom
» L’Enfant Plaza
» Union Station (1st Street entrance)
» Bethesda
» New Carrollton
» Shady Grove
» Rosslyn
