Transit-goers can expect to see some changes when hopping on the county transit system; 50 cents worth of changes.
Brainerd City Council moved approval of policy changes to both fare rates and packages during Monday night's meeting.
The fare for each one-way trip scheduled in advance within the city limits of Brainerd is $1. The new policy states: “trips extending to or originating in the city of Baxter will be $2, an increase from $1.50. Trips outside the city limits of Brainerd and Baxter will be $2.50. Additionally stops and transfers between the passengers pick up and return trip shall be $1 for trips originating outside the city limits of Brainerd and Baxter.”
Brainerd City Engineer Jeff Hulsether worked closely with the city of Brainerd and Crow Wing County Transportation Committee. The committee unanimously approved the policy changes at its joint meeting last month. Hulsether said the increase of 50 cents is the first change to fare rates in 10 years.
Also approved for change, an addition of a penalty for repeated violations of the package policy.
The original package policy states riders may bring up to four grocery-sized bags or the equivalent and further states, “items carried on to the bus such as groceries, packages and backpacks among other things must remain with the passenger at all times and may not obstruct the aisle or wheelchair securement areas.
“Drivers are allowed to carry a total of two packages and passengers and companions are expected to assist the passenger and driver with packages.”
Now, repeated violations of the package policy will result in a suspension of ride privileges for a period of 30 days.
JESSI PIERCE may be reached at 855-5859 or jessi.pierce@brainerddispatch.com. Follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/jessi_pierce (@jessi_pierce).
