Improvements Needed As Bus Fares Head North

Beginning next Tuesday, passengers boarding Costa Rica’s buses will need more monedas, orcoins, as the Public Services Regulatory Authority (ARESEP) this week approved a 5.1 percent fare increase for all bus routes.

ARESEP said the adjustments were made due to four variables, including drivers’ salaries, gas prices, the cost of repairs and maintenance and administrative adjustments that were agreed upon by businesses involved in bus transportation. The average price adjustment across 2,473 routes was calculated at ¢32 ($0.05). The maximum fare increase will be ¢380 ($0.69), with the minimum adjustment at ¢5.

After a nationwide study, ARESEP said the price hikes were justified by the need to invest more in maintenance and drivers’ wages and to adjust the fare in relation to kilometers traveled, schedules and the number of passengers. The buses are privately owned.

The increase in fares will be effective on Tuesday, March 2. ARESEP said riders who experience inaccurate fees should call 8000-27-3737 (8000 ARESEP).

–Adam Williams