Utah Transit Authority proposes first base fare hike in 13 years
The Utah Transit Authority is seeking to raise its base bus fare from $2.50 to $3, the first increase since 2013, pending agency approval.
Utah’s largest public-transport provider is asking for its first base fare adjustment in more than a decade, moving the standard bus price from $2.50 to $3. The change would affect all UTA modes, including TRAX, the streetcar and FrontRunner, and could be implemented sometime in 2027 if agency leaders approve it. Spokesperson Gavin Gustafson cited higher fuel costs, with gasoline at $4.35 per gallon and diesel near $5.41, as well as broader expense growth since the last hike in 2013.
The agency is also evaluating a contact-less “tap to pay” system to let riders use credit cards or mobile wallets. A 30-day comment window ends on September 9, and an online public hearing is scheduled for August 26. UTA will consider public input before finalizing the fare increase and any related service adjustments.
Why it matters
Higher transit fares could affect daily commuters and reflect broader cost pressures on public services.
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