by Stephen Lennstrom
Staff Writer

On March 1, bus fares of the King County Metro will have increased by 25 cents. The Metro Online website says that operating costs since the last fare increase seven years ago have risen 37 percent, and that the price of fuel has risen to justify the increase which “will raise $11.7 million in additional revenue annually.”

Metro defended the increase because it’s necessary in order to “improve the reliability and dependability of its system.” They also cite a record setting increase of people riding the bus as a reason to increase the availability and reliability of Metro service.

SCC Student Corrine D. commented that a raise in fare would be more beneficial for the bus system because she understands that current fares are not enough to cover all of Metro’s costs. “My family lives in San Diego where bus fares have been over $2 for a while now so…I’m not that concerned.” Her sentiments are not however, echoed by all.

“I have no other mode of transportation available to me,” stated SCC student Maria Rendon who takes the #5. “It does concern me that fares are increasing but I will need to accept the situation.”

Increases in passes are also to be expected with new bus passes for adults increasing to $54 a month for off-peak hours.

Fares increase on March 1 from $1.25 for One Zone, Off Peak to $1.50 for adults. Youth fares as well as those for senior citizens and the disabled will not be increased until July 1.