Draper commuters who ride FrontRunner or TRAX would pay 50 cents more per trip under a Utah Transit Authority proposal to raise the base fare from $2.50 to $3, the agency's first increase since 2013.

The change, which UTA says would take effect at some point in 2027, applies to buses, TRAX light rail, the S-Line streetcar and FrontRunner commuter rail across the Wasatch Front. Riders on reduced fares would see their cost rise from $1 to $1.20.

UTA spokesman Gavin Gustafson told KSL on Aug. 6 that the increase reflects a decade of rising costs. "The base fare has not changed in 13 years. What has changed in the last 13 years? Everything else," Gustafson said. The agency cited fuel, maintenance and expansion expenses as drivers. Utah's average gas price hit $4.35 per gallon in early August, nearly a dollar higher than the same period last year, according to AAA data reported by KSL.

The proposal still needs approval from UTA's leadership before it can take effect.

No board vote date has been announced.

How to comment

The public comment period opened Monday, Aug. 10, and runs through 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9. Comments can be submitted:

• Online at rideuta.com/feedback
• By email at [email protected]
• By phone at 801-287-3888
• By mail to Utah Transit Authority, Attn: Jolisha Branch, 669 W. 200 S., Salt Lake City, UT 84101

UTA will host a virtual public meeting Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 5:30 p.m. with an overview of the proposed changes and a chance to ask questions. Registration is available at rideuta.zoom.us. Accommodations such as sign language interpreters must be requested at least five working days before the meeting by calling 801-287-2444.

Other proposed changes

Beyond the fare increase, UTA announced plans to accept contactless credit cards, debit cards and mobile wallets as fare payment, giving occasional riders and visitors a faster way to board without a FAREPAY card.

The agency is also building a new S-Line streetcar station at Highland Drive and Simpson Avenue in Sugar House, with roughly a quarter-mile of new track. That extension is scheduled to open in August 2027, according to KUTV, and would improve access to shops, restaurants, housing and the University of Utah Sugar House Health Center.

UTA has not said whether the $3 base fare would change day passes, currently $5, or ski bus trips.

The Sept. 9 deadline is the last day for comments to be included in the official record.