New transit fares to take effect this fall in Chilliwack

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A staff report from the City of Chilliwack said BC Transit had been working on a transit fare review process with municipal stakeholders within the FVRD region to assess and implement transit fare “adjustments.” The review concluded by saying a fare increase was necessary to balance the goal of maximize revenue, attracting and retaining ridership, reducing fare complexity and ensuring affordability, along with the ultimate goal of aligning fares across the region.

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The city noted in its staff report that revenues derived from transit fares are used to offset the overall costs needed to operate the city’s transit service. On average, the city’s director of finance indicated, transit fares offset about 30 per cent of the cost of the transit system, meaning it is important that rates are reviewed and updated at intervals to keep pace with transit inflationary cost increases and maintain the general user pay portion ratio.

Thirty-day passes for adults will increase from the current price of $44 to $47 this October, followed by price adjustments to $53 and $59 in subsequent years.

Seniors will not see a price increase for 30-day passes. The price will remain $35 for the next two years, ensuring that seniors will continue to have an affordable option when taking transit.

Semester passes for students are also rising from the current cost of $112 to $128 starting this fall, $144 by 2026-27, and $155 the following year.

Concession fares for seniors and students will be combined into a single DayPASS fare in order to reduce complexity and potential conflicts with drivers. To improve access and convenience, passengers will be able to purchase a DayPASS directly on board by paying twice the single fare upfront, which will b $4.50 starting Oct. 1. A city staff report says this will eliminate the need for transfers and make it easier for cash users. This includes the introduction of automatic DayPASS capping for Umo users (and eventually debit/credit tap users), so that once two fares are paid in a single day, the system automatically upgrades to a DayPASS. City staff believe this will facilitate a more seamless and rider-friendly experience.