Puerto Rico is doubling rail transit fares in San Juan to prop up the system's finances. Simultaneously it is increasing the fares on some other public transit options in and around San Juan.
Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Public Works Miguel Torres Díaz said on Wednesday that the increases would go into effect on Oct. 4.
Regular fares on the island's Tren Urbano were reduced a few years ago to $0.75 from $1.50. In October they will return to $1.50. Students, seniors from 60 to 74 years old, the handicapped and Medicare beneficiaries will pay 75 cents. Those 75 or older will ride free.
The Tren Urbano, which opened in 2004, runs as a single line 11 miles from Bayam-n to San Juan. Bayam-n is southwest of San Juan.
The system's hours will continue to be from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
Bus fares are being raised to 75 cents.
The express bus service fare from Toa Baja to the Tren Urbano station in Bayam-n is being raised to $2. This fare includes a free transfer to the Tren Urbano or bus within two hours. Toa Baja is about 14 miles west of Bayam-n.
All these transportation options were placed into a public transit agency called the Integrated Transport Authority of Puerto Rico in August.
