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Regional transit fares to change

The change in fares is expected to be in place sometime this summer
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Just like the wheels on the bus that go round and round, bus fares throughout the South Okanagan and Similkameen will go up and down.

The new fare structure that will set local fares at $2.25 and regional fares at $4, was endorsed by Regional District Okanagan Similkameen directors last Thursday.

The change in fares is expected to be in place sometime this summer.

Many communities will see slight or moderate increases to local rides including Penticton, which will see fares change from $2 to $2.25.

Osoyoos will also see local fare increases from $1.75 to $2.25 while Princeton’s will change from $1.50 to $2.25.

The trade off for some will come in the regional routes where a flat rate of $4 will be charged.

Previously it cost someone from Osoyoos travelling to Penticton $5.25 for a one-way fare.

Those wanting to ride from Princeton to Penticton will see no change as their fare was already set at $4 but those getting on in Keremeos will see an increase of a $1 from $3 to $4.

Summerland will see just a 25 cent increase for local rides. Their regional fares were already set at $4.

“The aim of the fare structure was to simplify the schedule of fares, to achieve parity of fares across the systems, and to facilitate transfers between systems,” a report from staff stated.

Those looking to get to Kelowna from anywhere in the system can do so for just $11 one-way.

Although the change in fares in some areas are significant an increased marketing campaign and the ease of using the new system is expected to keep the decrease in ridership to a minimum.

The new fare structure is part of the Okanagan-Similkameen Transit Future Plan, which includes a regional schedule and riders’ guide.