CLEVELAND (AP) - The cost of a cab ride into downtown Cleveland from the airport will go up by more than 50 percent, starting next month.

The increase is part of changes that city officials say will improve taxi service from Cleveland Hopkins International.

Three cab companies have been given exclusive contracts to make airport pickups. In November, they'll shift from fares determined by meters to a flat-fee system.

Going downtown now costs around $29. Under the new system, the price will rise to $44, including a new $3 surcharge.

Hopkins marketing chief Todd Payne said Tuesday it's obviously more expensive, but the better service will be worth it.

City Councilman Kevin Kelley calls the fare hike unbelievable.