The Petition

Tell WTA: Reverse the Fare Hike.

As of September 1, 2026, WTA bus fares have doubled — the first increase in 18 years. Sign to demand the board reverse the hike, restore the Gold Card, and find a real solution.

— people have signed

Goal: 500 signatures

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Our Demands

What We're Asking WTA to Do

This petition will be delivered to the WTA Board of Directors, Bellingham City Council, and Whatcom County Council. Every signature strengthens our call for action.

1. Reverse the Fare Hike

Return the base bus fare to $1 and paratransit to $1. The farebox covers only 5% of WTA's costs — a doubling of fares harms riders without meaningfully fixing WTA's finances.

2. Restore the Gold Card

Reinstate free rides for riders 75 and older. Eliminating the Gold Card punishes transit-dependent seniors who have no other transportation option.

3. Negotiate a Permanent Student Bus Pass

WTA and WWU must agree on a long-term, affordable universal pass — not a year-by-year stopgap that may eventually shift costs onto students through fee increases.

4. Explore Alternative Funding First

Before any future fare changes, WTA must explore options including a Real Estate Excise Tax increment, property tax, and zonal fares — as other transit systems have successfully done.

5. Reform WTA Board Representation

Bellingham generates 80–90% of WTA's revenue and ridership but is underrepresented on the board. Governance must reflect the city's financial contribution.

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Add Your Name to the Petition

Tell the WTA Board of Directors that this fare hike is unacceptable and must be reversed. Your name and city will be shared with decision-makers. Your email stays private.

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What's Next

What Happens With Your Signature

We Deliver It to Decision-Makers

Petition signatures are delivered to the WTA Board of Directors, Bellingham City Council, and Whatcom County Council as evidence of public opposition.

We Keep You Informed

If you opted in, we'll email you when the petition is delivered, when board meetings are scheduled, and when new opportunities to take action arise.

Show Up in Person

The most powerful thing you can do is attend a WTA board meeting and speak during public comment. We'll tell you when and how.

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