TARC Raises Fares, Advocates Ask For Higher Taxes

The fare increase and service cuts approved Monday by the Transit Authority of River City’s board has some people calling for a tax increase to bolster the public transportation system.The board voted unanimously to raise fares 25 cents to help offset with rising fuel costs.   The frequency and number of stops on some routes will also be cut.Jackie Green of Louisville is a vocal proponent of alternative transportation. He says TARC needs to be prepared for an increase in ridership caused by higher gas prices.“Decreased service is a bad thing for the community. Whether you use TARC or not today, because you may be in the ranks tomorrow standing at the bus stop waiting on the bus that is not going to arrive for the next 40 minutes.”TARC gets most of its funding through the occupational tax, which Green and others want to see increased. It also receives funding from the Kentucky, Indiana and federal governments.