Bus, Trolley Fares to Increase in January

By WYDaily Staff Saturday, September 24, 2011

The Williamsburg Area Transit Authority Board of Directors voted Wednesday to adopt a new goWATA Pass Program, along with increasing the fares for all-day passes, trolley round-trip passes, and middle and high school students.

After hosting four public meetings in the community, WATA created the goWATA Pass Program, a more flexible and affordable option for riders.

The new program includes three new bus passes: a seven-day, six-day and 30-day. Both the six- and seven-day passes are $10, but expire on different dates. The 30-Day goWATA Pass offers unlimited use for $35 for regular fare. Senior and disabled pass users have discounted prices for each of the options.

The WATA board also voted to have a 50-cent fare increase for all-day passes, trolley round-trip passes, and middle or high school students. The all-day goWATA Pass will increase from $1.50 to $2 and the trolley passes will increase from 50 cents to $1. Middle school and high school students, who currently ride WATA buses for free, will pay a 50-cent fare for a one-way pass. Senior and disabled pass users will see a similar fare increase.

One-way cash fares for regular passes, transfer, and ADA paratransit rides will remain the same. Students of the College of William and Mary and Thomas Nelson Community College will continue to ride for free by showing their valid I.D. cards.

The new goWATA Pass Program and fare increases will take effect January 3, 2012. For more information, click here or contact WATA at (757) 220-5493.