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Council approves transit fare increase to $12 for agency-funded rides, effective Jan. 1
Summary
The Watertown Common Council adopted a resolution increasing a shared-ride transit fare category from $9 to $12 effective Jan. 1, 2026; city officials said the measure addresses a transit deficit and keeps broader rate increases for riders limited.
The Watertown Common Council on Dec. 16 approved a resolution to raise a shared-ride transit fare rate from $9 to $12 effective Jan. 1, 2026.
Alderman Blanky noted the change as a 33% increase for that fare category. Councilmember Smith said the Transit Commission recommended the change to help bridge a deficit and align with comparable systems. "This recommended fare increase would cut our deficit about $10,000," Smith said, adding the agency last raised fares in 2019.
Officials said most subsidized categories remain unchanged: senior and disabled fares remain at $3, and children riding with adults remain at the previously set rates. Smith said the increase targets agency-paid rides — not the fares paid by many regular riders — and aims to reduce reliance on other city funds.
The council moved and seconded the resolution and adopted it by roll call vote. The fare change takes effect Jan. 1, 2026, and staff said they based the proposal on statewide comparisons of shared-ride systems.
The council did not change most other categories; city staff and the Transit Commission will continue to monitor the agency's finances and report back if further adjustments are needed.
