HRT Board needs more time to discuss potential fare increase

Hampton Roads Transit’s board on Thursday postponed considering a bus fare increase.

Public hearing dates originally set for April and May have been pushed back to July and August. The board wants more time to study the agency’s financial condition and to evaluate potential fare increases.

While a new rate has not yet been proposed, studies under way show HRT’s $1.50 ticket is about 50 cents lower than those in similar-size cities.

“We galloped out too fast,” said Philip Shucet, HRT chairman and CEO, adding that the poor economy and the agency’s long-term sustainability need to be considered.

“We need to take the time to do this correctly.”

–        Debbie Messina, The Pilot