BART to raise train fares by 5.5% in response to inflation

In the United States, Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) authorities announced a fare hike of 5.5% effective January 1, 2025. This increase responds to ongoing inflation, allowing BART to maintain operating efficiency and work towards restoring financial stability. The current structure heavily relies on passenger fares for funding; thus, the adjustments are essential for continued service provision. This is the second fare increase, the first having taken effect on January 1, 2024, raising the average fare from $4.47 to $4.72. BART aims to generate approximately $14 million annually from this fare adjustment. The board of directors, including vice president Mark Foley, acknowledged the burden these fare hikes place on riders but emphasized the necessity of stable funding given the ridership declines influenced by the pandemic and the increase in remote work. The fare adjustments aim to spread the financial impact over two years rather than implementing a single larger increase, which could be more difficult for passengers to absorb. Amidst these adjustments, BART is also modifying its Clipper START program by raising discounts from 20% to 50% for low-income riders, helping to mitigate the impact of fare increases on vulnerable communities. With this budget restructuring, BART advocates for reliable service while addressing the necessities of its riders holistically. Additionally, these increases will support improved train service, enhanced cleaning protocols, and additional safety measures, including increased police and unarmed safety staff. Despite the fare increases, projections show that BART will still face significant operational deficits. Estimates suggest a $35 million shortfall for fiscal year 2026 and a staggering $385 million in fiscal year 2027. This ongoing financial strain has prompted BART management to reconsider its funding strategies to align more closely with other transit systems throughout the country that enjoy greater public funding. BART has had a fare increase program in place since 2004, spearheaded by the aim to regularly adjust fares to keep with inflation, thus ensuring necessary operational funds for safe and reliable service delivery going forward.