Caltrain holds public hearing on proposed fare, parking changes

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Caltrain is holding a public meeting today to gather feedback on proposed changes to fare and parking rates.

Officials say they have a $10 million budget shortfall. Even though Caltrain raised fares last year and ridership is at an all-time high, they have to deal with operational costs that have gone up because of increased ridership and the cost of maintaining an aging diesel system. Caltrain also relies on other county agencies for funding.

"Each agency at times has had to deal with their own issues with balancing their own budgets, so when they have to make a certain contribution to Caltrain, that is not always possible," said Tasha Bartholomew, Communications Officer.

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Caltrain is considering the following: increasing the zone fare by 25 cents; basing Monthly Pass prices on 15 days a month rather than 13 per month; eliminating the discounted 8-ride Ticket; and increasing Monthly parking prices from $55 to $82.50

Caltrain officials will vote on the proposals next month.

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