Keep WTA Buses Affordable For Everyone
WTA plans to double fares and end WWU's student bus pass. Tell local leaders: no fare hike.
Learn How to Help
Save The WTA is a grassroots campaign of riders, students, and community members fighting to keep Whatcom Transportation Authority buses affordable and accessible.
What WTA Is Proposing
In 2026, WTA plans to end WWU's universal student bus pass and double base fares system-wide. Instead of riding on a prepaid pass, students would be told to tap a card and pay $2 per ride (capped at $6/day and $60/month). Reduced fares would jump to $1, and paratransit fares to $3 per ride.
This plan will cost many students hundreds more per year, with some paying an estimated 550% more for the same bus service. It will push riders back into cars, increase traffic and emissions, and hit seniors, disabled riders, and low-income workers the hardest. It also clashes with WWU's and Bellingham's climate and equity goals.
Read the Full Story →Learn How To Help or Get Involved
We're calling on the WTA Board, local elected officials, and WWU to stop the fare hikes and negotiate a new, fair student bus pass that keeps transit within reach for everyone.
Sign the Petition
Add your name and tell WTA leadership that fare hikes are not acceptable.
Sign now →Read the Full Story
Understand the full scope of the problem: the board vote, the fare hike flaws, and what needs to change.
Read now →Contact Your Local Representatives
Reach out to Bellingham City Council, Whatcom County Council, and WWU administration.
Bellingham City Council →Whatcom County Council →
WWU Administration →
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