FAQs for Oct.

5 Fare Change
Q: What was the reason for the fare increase?
A: It will help the agency maintain a balanced budget. HRT has not requested an increase in fares since
1999.
Q: Why is the price changing?
A: HRT pays more for everything fuel, parts, and labor. This is a small step toward helping the agency
stay financially healthy.
Q: What bus passes will be eliminated?
A: The 2-Ride and the $3.00 Tide day pass (Tide roundtrip ticket).
Q: Is the Paratransit 10 ride changing?
A: There are no changes to the current Paratransit passes or fares.
Q: Will there be any changes to the Half Fare pass? How much will I pay as a senior?
A: The senior age has now been defined as age 65 or older, up from the previous 60 years of age. The Go
1 Day Half Fare was $1.75 and will increase to $2.00. The 5 Day Half Fare bundle was $8.75 and will
increase to $9.50 on October 5th. The 30 Day Half Fare pass is still $35.00 and the Half Fare per ride has
remained the same at $0.75 cents.
Q: Why was the senior fare increased from 60 to 65 years of age?
A: HRT commissioned a study and reviewed other transit agencies similar in size. The results showed
that other agencies similar to HRT had the set age of 65 for their senior fares. After the study was
completed it was agreed that HRT would align itself with the other agencies regarding senior fare prices.
Q: Can I still use my 30 day, seven day or Max fare card after October 5th?
A: Any passes purchased prior to October 5th is still valid except for passes being eliminated.
Q: What is defined as a Youth pass?
A: Half Fare includes seniors (65 and over), persons with disabilities and youth 17 and under.
Q: What is the importance of getting a Half Fare ID card if I have always received the Half Fare? My
driver knows me for years and I dont need an ID card.
A: If your license or state ID card does not establish you as 65 years old, then you will not receive a half
fare. Your other option is to get a Half Fare ID card from HRT.
Q: What is the upgrade fee for the Max?
A: The regular one day is $1.75 and the Half Fare is $1.00 per Max bus.
Q: Is the fare increase due to Virginia Beach residents requesting an extension to Light Rail?
A: No, Transit fares only pay a portion of the cost to provide service each day. Bus, rail and ferry
customers all help for service just as the city, state and federal government.
Q: Will the fare increase?
A: Another fare increase in not scheduled until mid year 2016.
Q: Will there be an improvement in service due to higher fare prices?
A: HRT is constantly working to improve service and make our bus system more reliable. We are working
to improve our bus fleet and maintenance issues that impact our customers. In order to keep making
these and other service improvements, HRT needs additional funding and has asked for your assistance
with our Connect Hampton Roads campaign.