The cost of riding the bus is going up.

Saskatchewan Transportation Company is increasing fares by an average of 4.5 percent, effective March 1st.  For an average one-way trip of 188 kilometres, the extra cost amounts to $1.30.

 

Seniors, students, and frequent riders will continue to be offered discounts on fares.

The crown corporation says the increase is needed to help recoup rising costs and revenue losses caused by ridership declines, but maintains that their rates are still affordable.

The last increase to STC fares was the summer of 2008.