Huron Shores Area Transit (HSAT) says it will be increasing fees next month for the first time in five years.
The fare update will take place on August 15, and while many riders will see increases, there will also be new Smart Card discounts for seniors, veterans, low-income residents, people with disabilities, and young families.
According to HSAT, local fares will increase to $6, long-distance fares to $12, and regional fares to $20.
"To reduce the impact of fare increases on vulnerable groups, HSAT is introducing a fare equity strategy," read the announcement from the company. "All discount fares require a Smart Card, which improves fare tracking for ridership insight and funding purposes."
Discounts available include:
- Children aged 12 and under continue to ride free
- Support Person Pass, which allows one support person to travel free with a registered passenger requiring assistance due to disability
- Free travel for registered CNIB cardholders
- Riders aged 65 and over, and Canadian veterans receive 20 per cent off pre-paid Smart Cards and Monthly Passes
- Deeply discounted fares for low-income riders, with verification from a food bank, Ontario Works, ODSP, or social housing provider
Communities HSAT serves include Lambton Shores, South Huron, Bluewater, Plympton-Wyoming, and Kettle and Stony Point First Nation.
For complete details on routes, schedules, fares, and Smart Cards, visit HuronShoresAreaTransit.ca.