UPDATE: Bay Area commuters will face significant fare increases starting January 1, 2024, as BART raises fares by 6.2% to combat a projected $376 million deficit by 2027. This urgent adjustment coincides with a 50-cent toll hike on seven major state-owned bridges, impacting daily travel for thousands.
The fare increase means riders will pay an average of 30 cents more per trip, bringing the typical fare from $4.88 to $5.18. Short trips, like from Downtown Berkeley to 19th St./Oakland, will rise by 15 cents, while longer journeys, such as from Antioch to Montgomery, will see a hike of 55 cents.
Parking fees will also see a sharp rise, with daily rates increasing by 40 cents at most stations and high-demand locations like Glen Park and Walnut Creek jumping by 30%. Monthly parking rates will rise by over $30 at key hubs, while some lower-demand stations will see reductions.
“As we ask the region for greater investments and support for BART while also making internal cuts to reduce costs, we also must ask our riders to contribute more towards their trips,” said BART Board President Mark Foley.
BART’s decision comes in light of multiple service disruptions throughout 2025, attributed to aging infrastructure and power failures. Notably, the transit system recorded over 51.7 million total rides last year, peaking at over 5 million paid exits in October.
With these fare increases, BART aims to stabilize its finances and maintain service amidst a looming fiscal cliff. As part of its cost-saving measures, the agency plans to defer $108 million in expenses to preserve current service levels. BART will also implement shorter trains to save on energy costs, alongside a strategic hiring freeze and efforts to renegotiate union agreements.
Failing to address its financial challenges could lead to drastic service cuts, including reduced trip frequencies, early closures, and potential layoffs. Such measures would not only disrupt commuter travel but could significantly impact regional traffic and state climate goals.
In the broader context, tolls will increase on the San Francisco-Oakland Bay, Antioch, Benicia-Martinez, Carquinez, Dumbarton, Richmond-San Rafael, and San Mateo-Hayward bridges. Two-axle vehicles will now pay $8.50, up from $8, while larger vehicles may incur increases of up to $3.50. Carpool rates during peak hours will also rise to $4.25.
As commuters brace for these changes, it is critical to stay informed about the new rates and their implications. For further details on fares, parking, and tolls, visit the official BART and Bay Area FasTrak websites.
In a time when public transport is essential for many, the urgency of these increases highlights the pressing need for funding and support for the Bay Area transit system. As officials seek solutions, all eyes will be on upcoming funding measures and regional initiatives aimed at sustaining public transportation networks.
