START budget to review commuter bus fares

The START bus service board of directors will begin to review its Fiscal Year 2019 budget, including passenger fares, beginning Thursday. The board will also consider long-standing ridership benefits for season ski pass holders to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR).

Passenger fares have not been increased since 2005 for service to and from Teton Village, service to Star Valley, Wyoming and Teton Valley, Idaho or for in-town shuttle service.

Transit Director Darren Brugmann said it was clear to him that START should be critically reviewing rates each year based on the cost of providing the service, including the service provided to JHMR. “We have always shared a common goal with our partners in Teton Village that we are committed to reducing traffic congestion and are unwavering in that goal and will continue to pursue all options towards it,” said Brugmann. “However, we also need to pay attention to our budget – it would be irresponsible to look at just one side of the issue and not the other.”

There has been no discussion or action taken by the START Board, Town Council or County Commission to change the service provisions offered to ski pass holders. That process will begin with the budget review Thursday.

START is also in the process of issuing a Request for Proposals to investigate the cost of installing an electronic fare system to better track ridership and inform decisions on fares, routes, and route discussions.

The budget meeting is open to the public.

It will begin at 11:30 a.m. March 8 at the Town Hall Council Chambers at 150 East Pearl Avenue in Jackson.