Transit users, this is for you.
After a fare review process that began in June 2023, followed by public consultation, BC Transit will increase their fares by 20%—set to come into effect on April 1st, 2025.
This will bring the current single-ride fare of $2.50 up to $3, and the day passes from $5 to $6.
The Concession 30-Day ($45) and Adult 30-Day ($85) passes will remain unchanged.
In June of last year, BC Transit was directed to initiate a fare review process for the Victoria region, as it hadn’t been reviewed since 2016 and the area has seen significant increases in operational costs since then.
BC Transit wanted to find an increase option that would improve their revenue while also ensuring the fares align with their recommended guidelines—which essentially aim to create as little disruption for customers as possible.
After the fare review process began in June, September brought forward five different fare options to the Victoria Regional Transit Commission.
Four of these were approved for public consultation, so an online survey was conducted, as well as three in-person engagement events to gather feedback regarding the fairness of the increase.
From October 20th to December 15th of last year, the public was encouraged to complete an online survey or visit them at the engagement events to ensure their voices were heard.
The surveys wished to determine which fare options would have the biggest impact on revenue and improvements to transit, while remaining equitable and maintaining ridership.
Using results gathered from the public as well as consulting their fare guidelines, they were able to settle on an option that would best suit the majority.
If you wish to read the full report and survey findings, you can do so, here.
