BBB Will Raise Fares in August for First Time in Nearly a Decade

The following is a submission from the City of Santa Monica.

Beginning August 10, the Santa Monica Department of Transportation will increase fares on the BigBlueBus system for the first time in nearly a decade:

Big Blue Bus is implementing the following fare changes: 

• Increasing the cost of Single Ride, 1-Day, 7-Day, 10 Rides, and 30-Day Passes 
• Eliminating the Annual and Youth 30-Day Passes

Big Blue Bus will maintain: 

• One free Big Blue Bus to Big Blue Bus transfer within two hours 
• Discounted fares for use of contactless payments 
• Participation in regional fare discount programs such as LIFE and GoPass 

The fare increase will help offset the rising costs of fuel, utilities, and supplies accrued in recent years. The changes will also help Big Blue Bus further invest in its fleet electrification and Brighter Blue program, which collectively aim to provide sustainable and convenient service through greater frequency, expanded operating hours, and improved connections to key destinations such as the new LAX/Metro Transit Center, Sofi Stadium, and Metro’s C, D, and K Lines.  

“At Big Blue Bus, we are in the midst of a transformative period,” Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. “Along with our city and state partners, we are investing in high-quality transit service, a sustainable fleet that will move us into a greener future, and a skilled workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. The fare adjustments will provide meaningful customer experience improvements that ensure Big Blue Bus remains a safe, reliable, convenient, and appealing alternative to driving.” 

Find more details about the fare changes at bigbluebus.com/meetings.

About The Author

Damien Newton

Damien is the executive director of the Southern California Streets Initiative which publishes Santa Monica Next, Streetsblog Los Angeles, Streetsblog San Francisco, Streetsblog California and Longbeachize.

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