PORTLAND, Ore. — TriMet riders can expect to pay a little more for some fares starting Jan. 1, 2024. The change will help cover growing operating costs, TriMet said.
The impact of the increase includes the two-and-a-half-hour passes and all-day passes for adults. Those fares will go up by 12%, or 30 cents and 60 cents, respectively. Below is a breakdown of the current costs and what some riders will need to pay in the new year.
Two-and-a-half-hour ticket (adult)
- Current cost: $2.50
- New cost: $2.80
Day pass (adult)
- Current cost: $5
- New cost: $5.60
Two-and-a-half-hour ticket (honored citizens/youth)
- Current cost: $1.25
- New cost: $1.40
Day pass (honored citizens/youth)
- Current cost: $2.50
- New cost: $2.80
The monthly pass for adults currently costs $100 and will not increase, so frequent riders will not see a change.
This is the first time that fares will go up since 2012. The agency said it needs the increase to offset inflation and rising operational costs that have built up over the past decade.
In May, TriMet's board of directors voted 6-1 to increase rider fares on the Portland metro area's buses and light rails. After the proposed hike was announced, riders who spoke with KGW expressed opposition and Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler urged board members to vote against the increases, pointing to the impact on low-income residents and overall financial burdens on Portlanders. TriMet held open houses and informational meetings about the fare increase earlier in the year, and held a public comment period.
TriMet has reduced fares for older adults, youth and people with disabilities who qualify. More information about the qualifications are on the agency's website.