WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – It could be getting more expensive to ride the bus around Whatcom County.

The Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) is holding a public hearing on Thursday, Dec. 4, to get feedback on a proposed fare increase.

The agency says fares haven’t risen since 2008, while the cost of offering rides has grown steadily.

WTA’s proposal would increase the cost of a fixed route bus to $2 per ride and double the daily fare cap from $3 to $6. Anyone ages 18 and under would still ride free.

Community members can attend the public hearing either in-person at WTA’s headquarters or virtually via Zoom.

WTA is also hosting a virtual meeting to get feedback on Monday, Nov. 24 at 12 p.m. and people can submit additional comments through its website.

If approved, the new fares would take effect in fall 2026.