Fare Hike Proposed for Metrolink

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The cost to commute via Metrolink for residents could increase soon. The Metrolink Board of Directors recently directed staff to start a public outreach campaign for a possible system-wide fare hike to assist in closing a $13 million budget gap for the 2012-13 fiscal year, according to a news release.

If approved, the changes to the fare would increase costs by 5 to 9 percent, officials said.  The change would go into effect on or after July 1.

"A fare increase is a last resort to be able to maintain current service levels,” said Metrolink CEO John Fenton in a statement.  “The proposed fare increase will only cover a portion of the funding gap. It would take a 20 percent fare increase to cover the entire funding gap."

If the proposed hike is approved, it could mean increases of up to 13.58 percent for less than one percent of monthly pass holders and up to 20 percent for less than one percent of one-way or roundtrip tickets with the restructuring included.

However, the average increase system-wide is expected to range from 5 to 9 percent, officials said.  Fare tables are posted online and will be available at upcoming community workshops and at a May 30 public hearing.  Comments and suggestions related to the proposed fare hike may be submitted orally or in writing at the hearing. 

They can also be mailed in advance of the hearing to the attention of “Metrolink Fares” at the SCRRA headquarters, One Gateway Plaza, Floor 12, Los Angeles, Calif., or faxed to 213-452-0429.  They must be received by May 29 at noon. Comments can also be submitted online by clicking on the “eComment” option at www.metrolinktrains.com/ecomments. No public comments will be considered after the public hearing on May 30 begins.