JTA Raises Bus and Shuttle Fares Despite Outcry

Bus fares for individual riders, disabled riders and shuttle services are going up.

Standard one-way fares will increase from $1 to $1.50. Fares for disabled individuals, who ride at a reduced rate of 25 cents per one-way trip, will double to 50 cents, then increase again to 75 cents next year. The JTA Connexion, a sub-contracted company that transports Duval County citizens with disabilities, are expected to raise rates from $1.25 to a proposed $3 per ride, a 200% increase. Weekly bus passes will also increase in price from $12 to $16, while monthly passes will jump from $40 to$50.

JTA patrons with limited incomes, particularly disabled individuals who use the JTA Connexions service, should plan their budget to accommodate for the rise in fares.

A meeting was held at JTA headquarters on Jan. 9 to discuss proposed changes concerning bus fare spikes for JTA Connexion users. Despite a sweeping request from disabled and low-income patrons, JTA approved the fare increases. Three proposals were implemented in order to cushion the blow of the recent changes.

The meeting proposals made revisions to raise the base rate of $1.25 to $2.00 and to continue to raise it by $0.50 each year, for four years, until a camp amount of $3.00 is reached.

On Jan. 26, a second hearing will be held at JTA headquarters that will be open to the public at 100 N. Myrtle Ave. The meeting will serve as a platform to allow Jacksonville residents to voice their opinion and help headquarters arrive at a resolution for Jacksonville's bus fares.

Along with the increases, JTA announced the introduction of a cashless card, called the Star Card, to be implemented by Jan. 31. The Star Card acts like a debit card. JTA patrons will be required to load money onto their card and will swipe the card to pay their fare upon boarding. Star Cards are designated for long-term, frequent use, but JTA will retain a single-use option for patrons who ride less frequently.