Metra fare increases take effect Thursday

CHICAGO (WLS) -- For the fourth year in a row, Metra is raising the cost of travel for commuters. The increases approved last, year go into effect Thursday.

"It's a never ending struggle for everybody who has to take public transportation," complained Doriana Marquez, who alternates between using Metra and the CTA and is now paying more for both services.

Other users wonder what they're getting in exchange for the increased costs pointing to the transportation systems deficiencies.

"You use to be able to set your watch by the Chicago NW," said Evanston resident Max Shapiro. "Now they're not really on time as much as they used to be. Sometimes they're crowded."

Starting Thursday, February 1, here's what riders can expect:

• The price of a one-way ticket will increase by 25-cents in all zones
• The price of 10-ride tickets will increase $4.25 to $7.75 depending on the zone
• The price of a monthly pass will increase $9 to $12.50 depending on the zone
• Weekend passes will increase $2, from $8 to $10
• The price of some reduced fare tickets and passes will also increase.
www.surveymonkey.com/r/MetraFaresclick here

In other transportation news, IDOT is holding a public meeting later Wednesday on proposed improvement along 16 miles of I-80 from Ridge Road to U.S. 30 in Grundy, Kendall and Will counties. It's from 4 to 7 p.m. at Joliet Junior College.

It will give the public a chance to see updates on the proposed project through exhibits and a video presentation and give their input and comments back to IDOT.

For more information on the I-80 improvements, visit www.I-80Will.com.