The fare hike is absolutely warranted to cover increased costs and give Metro Transit the resources to maintain safe, effective service.

The alternative -- to save money by cutting service and forgoing improvements -- would harm riders far more than the fare increase. < p> Furthermore, the increase, which would raise the cash fare to $2 and similarly hike passes and ticket packages, would be cushioned by a discount for low-income riders.

To raise the fare by 50 cents, the council must override the decision by the city Transit and Parking Commission, which approved only a 25-cent increase.

In favoring the smaller fare hike, the commission opposed the recommendations of Mayor Dave Cieslewicz and Metro officials for a 50-cent increase.

The commission's majority argued that the higher rate increase would cost the bus system ridership.

Indeed, with a 50-cent rate increase, Metro's growth rate is projected to decline to 1 percent next year, down from 6 percent this year.

But the 50-cent rate increase would improve prospects for long-term growth by allowing enhancements to service and security. In addition, Metro would bolster the marketing of unlimited ride passes to businesses, which were a prime factor in boosting ridership last year.

In contrast, with only a 25-cent rate increase, Metro would be left with a $354,000 deficit, making it necessary to cut service and neglect improvements.

The results of the smaller rate increase would pose a risk of ridership losses and leave Metro without the resources needed to resume growth in the future.

The mayor even responded to concern about the impact of a fare increase on low-income riders by creating a discount fare that would make available 400 half-price passes a month to qualified riders.

A 50-cent fare increase is justified. Metro's cash fare has not increased since 2000. Meanwhile, taxpayers have increased their aid to Metro by 70 percent.

City taxpayers now pay more for Metro than riders pay -- by a $9.7 million to $9.1 million margin.

To limit the raise to only 25 cents would shortchange not only Metro but also its riders.

The City Council should approve the 50-cent hike proposed by the mayor.
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