The City of Ottawa approved a 2.5 per cent increase in OC Transpo fares after city councillors met Wednesday to pass the 2015 budget.
Last February, Ottawa’s transit commission had agreed on the fare increase, which only needed city council approval to be made official. The new prices will take effect on Canada Day.
Starting on July 1, cash fares will increase by 10 cents to $3.55. Regular adult monthly passes will increase by $2.50 and cost $103.25. Adult express passes will cost $127.25, up from $124.25.
The city needs to be careful not to scare away riders who may be be impacted by both service disruptions and higher prices, said Rideau-Rockcliffe Councillor, Tobi Nussbaum, who is a member of the transit commission.
“OC Transpo for the next few years is going to be experiencing a transitional period of service disruptions as the LRT is coming online,” Nussbaum said. “And it will be important for us hold on to the ridership.”
The proposed city budget also includes a two per cent property tax increase and a similar increase in recreation fees.