The South Central Transit Authority (SCTA) announced Wednesday that fares for BARTA Special Services shared-ride and paratransit transportation will increase effective Aug. 1, marking the first fare adjustment for the service in nearly a decade.
According to SCTA, the average full fare for BARTA Special Services trips will increase from $24.92 to $29.50, with rates varying based on mileage. Customer co-pays will range from $2.65 for trips under 2 miles to $8.40 for trips of 16 miles or more.
The fare changes apply to BARTA Special Services shared-ride service, including riders participating in the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) program. Under the new fare structure, ADA-eligible riders will pay $3.60 per trip, up from the current $3.40 fare. Personal Care Attendants will continue to ride free.
A fare comparison released by BARTA shows increases across all mileage tiers. For example, the full fare for trips under 2 miles will increase from $16.70 to $17.50, while trips exceeding 16 miles will rise from $49.60 to $56.00. Out-of-county trips extending up to 10 miles beyond the county line will increase from $50 to $60.
SCTA is seeking public feedback on the proposed changes. Comments may be submitted in person, by mail, or via email to barta@bartabus.com.
A public hearing on the fare increase will be held Wednesday, July 1, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at BARTA’s Administrative Offices, 1700 N. 11th St. in Reading. Information for virtual participation will be posted on BARTA’s website.
SCTA serves as the management organization for the Berks Area Regional Transportation Authority (BARTA) in Berks County and the Red Rose Transit Authority (RRTA) in Lancaster County. For more information about the fare changes, visit BARTA’s website.
