Transit Fares Adjusted for the First Time in a Decade to Maintain Quality of Service

Posted On: September 5, 2024

To sustain its high-quality services amid rising operational costs, Volusia County's Transit Services Division has announced fare adjustments for its VoRide and Votran services, the first increase in nearly a decade. Effective Sept. 9 for VoRide and Jan. 1 for Votran, these adjustments aim to keep the services affordable while managing increased operational expenses. Despite the changes, fares will remain below the average of other Florida transit systems.

Starting Sept. 9, VoRide will maintain a base fare of $2 for trips up to 5 miles. Trips exceeding 5 miles will incur a $1 per mile surcharge, capped at 10 miles. Transfers to Votran buses will continue at no extra charge, and trips to either of the SunRail stations in the county will remain free.

On Jan. 1, Votran will increase its single-ride fare to $2, up from $1.75. One-day passes will rise to $4, and similar modest increases will apply to three-day, seven-day, and 31-day passes. Following community feedback, Votran Gold Service will adjust to $3.50 per ride, a reduction from the initially proposed $4. Reduced fares for both VoRide and Votran are still available for disabled riders, seniors 65 and over, and youths 17 and under.

"Votran is committed to providing our riders with dependable and affordable transportation options," said Transit Services Director Bobbie King. "This necessary fare increase supports our ongoing commitment to maintain high service levels while remaining economically viable."

Throughout the summer, the Transit Services Division held numerous public meetings, both in-person and online, and gathered direct feedback from riders at transfer stations and on buses regarding the proposed fare changes. In the fiscal year 2022-23, Votran reported more than 2 million boardings, an increase of 27% over the previous year. Votran's annual budget is approximately $30 million, supported by federal and state grants, fare revenue, and County funds.

"Votran continues to strive for operational efficiency and safety in our service delivery," King added. "We regularly evaluate each route's performance to balance our community's social and economic needs, and we've integrated new technologies to enhance our operations. This includes the launch of VoRide, optimizing Gold Service trips, and maximizing grant funding. Notably, Votran operates debt-free with no unfunded liabilities."

For additional information, schedules, and fare details, riders can contact Votran customer service at 386-761-7700, visit www.votran.org, or use the myStop mobile app.