Bay Transit is looking at increasing its fares in the region, according to director Ken Pollock.

"We have not had a fare increase, except in Lancaster County, since our inception in 1996," Pollock said. "Operating costs, especially fuel, have risen tremendously over time."

Currently fares are $1 for a one-way trip within the county of residence. The new proposal would increase one way fares to $2 per trip and 10-trip ticket books from $8 to $12.

Bay Transit offers volume discounts for riders who purchase a book of 10 tickets for $12, a cost of only $1.25 per ride."

Bay Transit’s fare increase proposal will be presented to the Bay Aging Board of Directors for consideration at the end of July, after two scheduled public hearings to allow for public input.

The public hearings are scheduled for 1 p.m. on Thursday, July 18, at Port Town Village, 111 Port Town Lane, Urbanna, and 7 p.m. July 22 at the Bay Transit Regional Facility in Warsaw. Transportation is available at no...