Lehigh and Northampton paratransit fare increase proposed

ALLENTOWN, Pa. (AP) - Some riders say they would be hard hit by higher fares for paratransit service in Lehigh and Northampton counties.

Rider Kathleen Britton of Allentown says an increase at a time when rents and utilities are also going up could prevent some disabled riders from traveling independently.

Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority officials propose raising the paratransit price to $3.15 a ride, a 45-cent increase. A six-ticket book would go from $16.20 to $18.90.

The LANTA board votes on the proposal at a June meeting. Executive director Armand Greco says it's the first fare increase in nearly four years for the Metro Plus service.