Powell River Transit Fare Review Survey

Powell River Transit is seeking feedback to better understand how residents use transit, awareness of available fare products and policies, and how transit information and rider education can be improved to support a positive transit experience for everyone.

How is transit funded?

Transit services in Powell River are funded through a combination of passenger fares, provincial funding, and contributions from local governments through taxation. Passenger fares collected within the system help support the operation of local transit services and reduce the financial burden placed on local taxpayers. As operating costs continue to rise, maintaining a balance between affordability, service sustainability, and local funding contributions is becoming increasingly important.

Why are fares being reviewed?

BC Transit, the City of Powell River and the qathet Regional District are reviewing transit fares in Powell River to ensure the system remains sustainable and affordable. Powell River Transit fares have been $2.25 for a single ride since 2018, and have remained unchanged for 8 years. Meanwhile, operating costs have risen significantly, creating increasing reliance on property taxes and making it harder to fund growing service needs. 

As part of the current fare review, Powell River Transit is assessing whether existing fares remain appropriately priced while balancing affordability with cost recovery — the percentage of transit operating expenses funded through passenger fare revenue.

• In 2019, passenger fares covered approximately 19% of operating costs
• In 2025, passenger fares covered approximately 9% of operating costs