Several updates are being made to the Virgin Islands Transit System services, including a proposed increase in fares, the V.I. Public Works Department announced.
The proposed VITRAN fares for fixed-route and Paratransit services will begin April 15, 2024. The current fare pricing has not changed since the inception of VITRAN services in 1994. The department has attempted to avoid fare increases; however, the changes were implemented to offset rising fuel and maintenance costs, according to senior VITRAN officials.
The suggested fare increases for fixed-route services are from $1 to $2.50 and Paratransit services from $2 to $5. Discounts for Medicare cardholders and free rides for seniors will remain in effect, according to the press release.
The public is asked to submit comments on the fare changes by March 26 by emailing vitranplanning@dpw.vi.gov or by leaving a voice message by calling 340-244-2269, the press release stated.
VITRAN officials previously discussed adjustments to the Senior Citizen Free Ride Policy; however, following concerns and commentary from the public, the department has decided not to make any changes, the release stated.
The department has also secured two new all-electric vans for the VITRAN Plus ADA Paratransit Service, it stated.
The procurement of the vans was made possible through a Department of Interior grant awarded to the Virgin Islands Energy Office as part of the Energy Office’s mandate to create an electric fleet for the Virgin Islands government. One van is currently available on St. Croix, with the other electric van arriving in the future for the St. Thomas-St. John district, according to the release.
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