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TTC takes the hike

The TTC has voted to raise fares for all riders, effective in the new year. Monthly metropass users now pay $121 -rather than the reported $126 — and a single ride will now cost an extra quarter.

“We haven’t had an increase in 26 months. Obviously, no one wants an increase… [but] I’m not prepared to cut service, it’s not the time to be cutting back in services,” said TTC Chair, Adam Giambrone.

“This is the best way forward.”

There were only three solutions to address the financial strains facing the TTC, according to chief financial officer, Michael Roche: reduce expenditures, increase fares, or increase subsidies.

A “modest” fare hike, however, was singled out as the best option as of now.

The fare hike spells bad news for the majority of commuters, but university students in the city had reasons to celebrate, as the discounted monthly passes given to those in high school will now be extended to post-secondary students. They will now pay $99, instead of the proposed $104.

“Students need a break, they are a community in need. Now is a good time as any,” said Joe Mihevc, the TTC deputy chairman and city councilor.

Before the vote, students, labour council members, and every-day residents got to voice their concerns in front of the commission over the effects the increase will have on the unemployed and underpaid. But once the emotional, sometimes angry, deputations ended, the fare hikes became a reality.

The TTC expects to generate around $50 million in revenues from the move, which will help offset the $106 million shortfall in next year’s operating budget.

How the TTC will recover the remaining $50 million in shortfall will be discussed at next month’s budget meeting.

FARE’S FAIR

ADULT:

Cash: $2.75 to $3.00

Tokens: $2.25 to $2.50

Weekly passes: $32.25 to $36.00

Metropasses: $109.00 to $121.00

Metropasses (VIP): $96.00 to $107.00

Metropasses (MDP): $100.00 to $111.00.

SENIOR/STUDENT:

Cash: $1.85 to $2.00

Tickets: $1.50 to $1.65

Weekly passes: 25.50 to $28.00

Metropasses: $91.25 to $99.00

Metropasses (MDP): $84.00 to $89.00.

CHILD:

Cash: 0.70 to $0.75
Tickets: $0.50 to $0.55.
Day passes: $9.00 to $10.00.

The TTC portion of a GTA Pass: $25.30 to $29.25.[rssbreak]

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