Photo by Kevin H.

From the Washington Post comes news that is bound to delight Metro users, especially those who ride the Red Line: Officials are considering a fare hike on both rail and bus, as well as a rise in parking prices.

Metro transit officials have drafted a nearly $2.9 billion budget proposal for the next fiscal year that would increase rail fares by an average of 3 percent — adding 10 cents to the cost of a typical train ride — and change the standard bus fare to $1.75, regardless of whether a passenger pays with cash or a SmarTrip card.

Meanwhile, the cost of parking in Metro lots and garages, now $5 a day in most places, would go up by 25 cents in the new budget.

The spending plan, which would take effect next July, will be officially announced today. Metro General Manager Richard Sarles told the Post the proposed fare hikes are “necessary” and “still very modest.”