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This column reflects the opinion of the writer. Learn about the differences between a news story and an opinion column.

Lower STA fares, increase use

I was pleased to see the Spokane Transit Authority’s new plan laid out in detail April 6, and I was fascinated with how the STA is funded: 70.3 percent by tax dollars, with less than 16.2 percent being from fares.

By my calculations, if the STA tax was raised to 11 cents, versus the proposed 9 cents, for every $10, this could eliminate the necessity for fares. At the very least, even raising the tax rate to 10 cents would allow STA to reduce fares to 50 cents from the current $1.50.

If Spokane County and STA truly want to grow their public transit system, STA needs to lower the cost to the riders, making riding public transit more attractive than driving. If lower fares were coupled with the STA’s planned increase in route coverage and frequency, I believe we would see more people willing to ride STA.

More citizens commuting via STA would mean fewer cars on the road, reduced emissions and supporting a growing transit network for decades to come. Expanding the transit network is the first step in realizing this goal. More affordable fares is the next.

Dennis Sauve

Spokane Valley

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