Arlington paratransit fares rise

Higher fares take effect on Monday for Specialized Transit for Arlington Residents (STAR). The paratransit service provides rides to the elderly and the disabled.

The rate changes are as follows:
-- $2.50 to $3.00 for local trips (Zone 1)
-- $3 to $4 for Zone 2, which includes trips inside the Beltway, INOVA Fairfax Hospital and Alzheimer's Family Day Center
-- $7 to $8.50 for Zone 3, regional trips

Arlington transit fares for regular service increased July 1 from $1.25 to $1.50 with a SmartTrip card.

According to Arlington officials, it's the first increase for ART since 2004 and for STAR since 2006.

"Each year, we are seeing a marked increase in local transit ridership," said Arlington Board Chairman Jay Fisette. "This fare adjustment is needed to maintain the safety and level of service that our riders have come to expect from Arlington's transit services."

Metro implemented the first phrase of an extensive fare increase that hit all rail, bus and paratransit riders on June 27. Arlington officials said the county's transit fare hikes typically follow Metro's increases.