Transit system eliminating transfers in September

Longer service days and a revamped fare schedule will come into effect for the city’s transit system at the beginning of September, BC Transit said in a reminder issued Friday.

Starting on Sept. 3, the operating hours will be increased for two routes so that 91 Spruceland/Hart will run until 8 p.m. on weekdays and Saturdays and 46 Queensway will operate until 7:30 p.m. on Sundays.

Route 46 will also feature a conventional-sized bus with more seats.

Transfers will no longer be handed out. Instead, riders will have the option of paying for a single ride or a pass that will allow them to use the system all day long.

Transfers have been regarded as the top cause of conflict between drivers and riders and as means of fraud through the use of expired transfers.

The development comes with a change to the fare structure designed to encourage the use of the so-called DayPASS. Its cost decline for adult and discount customers by $1.25 and 25 cents respectively to $5 while student and senior single-ride tickets will increase by $0.50 to $2.50 to match the price for the adult single-ride tickets.

Also, adult monthly passes will increase by $2.50 to $60, student monthly pass will increase by $2 to $50, semester passes will increase by $10 to $135 and handyDART fares go up by 25 cents to $2.50

In addition, the Family Travel Program will now allow parents or guardians with a valid monthly pass, DayPASS, ProPASS, U-PASS or BC Bus Pass to bring up to four children (12 years and under) for free on Saturdays and Sundays.

For more information on the service expansion, fare change and FAQ, visit BCTransit.com/prince-george or pick up a new Rider’s Guide.