The Metrolinx board voted unanimously on Monday in favour of increasing fares on GO Transit.

The increased fares will go into effect Feb. 18 and are expected to raise revenue by nearly $20 million.

Metrolinx says the money will be put toward facility maintenance, increased capacity and new parking spaces.

  • For existing fares between $4.20 and $5.50, the increase will be 30 cents
  • For fares between $5.51 and $7, the increase will be 35 cents
  • For fares above $7, the increase will be 40 cents

Monthly passes are also affected by the fare increase. GO currently offers a 17.5 per cent discount on adult monthly passes, with the fare increase it will drop to 15 per cent compared to 40 single-ride tickets.

PRESTO users will continue to save 17.5 per cent.

The student discount dropped from 35 per cent to 30 percent over 40 single-ride tickets. PRESTO student users will continue to save 35 per cent.

Metrolinx said that the fare increase will help meet increasing ridership demand for GO services.

"A fare increase this year is necessary to ensure that GO Transit can continue to provide good customer service, expand services and manage increased costs in areas like fuel and hydro," said Bruce MgCuaig, president and CEO of Metrolinx, in a statement.

The last fare increase was in March 2010.