T fares set to increase by almost 20 percent

T riders can expect the cost of their trips on public transit to increase by as much as 20 percent based on a proposal released today by MBTA administrators.

The proposal calls for a series of 13 public meetings where riders can voice their concerns about the increase before the proposal is voted on the by the MBTA's Board of Directors sometime in August. The increase is necessary because of the long-term debt problems facing the T, officials said. For every dollar that the agency collects in fees, 30 cents goes towards its debt.

Single rides on subway lines and buses will increase by either 30 to 50 cents. Monthly subway and bus passes will increase $10, and commuter rail passes will go up by as much as $31, depending on the zone the rider travels in.

While any increase is certainly bad news, the good news is that your employer offers benefits and incentives to encourage you to take the T to work and may even subsidize part or all of your monthly pass expenses. If you have any questions about what commuter benefits are available to you, click here for the contact info for your company's Transportation Coordinator.