Alternative Metro Fare Hikes Proposed

Both proposals would increase rush-hour boarding charges by 30 cents, to $1.65, a 22 percent increase. But the Maryland plan would raise the maximum fare per trip by 60 cents to $4.50 instead of 80 cents, to $4.70. The Maryland plan also seeks a smaller increase in distance charges. In both plans, the charge for seniors would increase to one-half the regular peak fare.

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There are no increases under either plan for off-peak subway fares, or for MetroAccess.

At Metro parking lots, where spots cost as much as $4, the proposal that went before the public called for a $1.15 increase. The Maryland plan calls for a 75-cent hike for six months, with an option to increase it by 25 cents after that.

Benjamin said that because this year's ridership is ahead of budget estimates, Metro might be able to generate enough revenue with a 75-cent increase.

Both proposals seek to increase fees for reserved parking by $10, to $55 a month. That fee is in addition to the daily parking charge. But unlike the public hearing proposal, the Maryland plan would not increase the number of reserved spaces.

District members have argued that more reserved parking is needed because of waiting lists at some stations. Riders have complained that setting aside more reserved spaces would mean fewer spots for others unwilling or unable to pay the additional monthly cost.

Reserved spaces are set aside until 10 a.m. weekdays. After that, anyone can take an unused space. "Reserved spaces are for the elite," Benjamin said.

If those spaces remain empty, regular riders can't park there during rush hour and Metro loses a peak-period fare. If the spot fills after 10 a.m., that is after rush hour. Under both proposals, fares do not go up for any off-peak travel.

Both proposals would increase bus fares by a dime for cash-paying passengers, an increase of 8 percent. The fare would remain $1.25 for riders who pay with electronic SmarTrip cards.