MIAMI-DADE — Miami-Dade County commissioners approved the first Metrorail and Metrobus fare increase in 13 years on Tuesday and directed the mayor to develop a plan to charge riders on the downtown Metromover, which has long been free.
The standard one-way fare for Metrorail and Metrobus will rise 50 cents, from $2.25 to $2.75, on Jan. 1, 2027. Commissioners voted 9-4.
The last increase was in 2013.
County officials say the increase will keep service that was slated for cuts. Revenue estimates differ: about $9.2 million and about $10 million. Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said the money will “help keep more buses running and preserve the service residents rely on.” It will preserve 13 routes at risk of elimination, including late-night bus service used by more than 4,000 daily commuters, including late-shift workers.
The county said the increase will not fully resolve its budget challenges.
Commissioner Oliver Gilbert said the increase responds to recurring costs such as salaries, fuel, electricity, maintenance, security and technology.
Under the plan, Routes 11, 79, 77, 3 and 27 keep 24-hour service, and 16 of 17 low-demand routes keep running but stop after 10 p.m. Route 132 is eliminated in November 2026.
Metromover Next
Commissioners also asked Levine Cava to draft a plan for a Metromover fee. Commissioner Raquel Regalado said the goal is “$1 plus whatever the fee collection is.”
No start date has been set, and reporting indicates that no decision has been made on a Metromover fare.
Rider Reaction
Riders and transit advocates objected at the hearing. One public speaker said riding Metrorail twice a day would add “an additional $240 a year.”
Gilbert argued that people on the first or last bus “don’t have any other choice.” Transit advocacy groups also raised concerns about frequent riders.
Free and reduced-fare options will remain for seniors, veterans, students, people with disabilities and low-income residents. Veterans, students and seniors keep their fares unchanged for the coming year.
