The Monroe County Transportation Authority, also known as the Pocono Pony, is seeking public input on proposed fare adjustments for its Shared Ride service.

The authority’s board of directors will hold a public hearing regarding the proposed increase at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 24 the authority headquarters, 134 MCTA Drive, Swiftwater.

If approved, the updated fare structure would take effect Oct. 1.

“We recognize that any adjustment to fares can impact our riders’ personal budgets, and we do not take these changes lightly,” said Rich Schlameuss, chief executive officer of the authority. “This update is necessary to ensure we can sustain quality, dependable transportation for Monroe County, keeping our passengers connected to health care, work, shopping and their community.

“We value our riders’ input and encourage everyone to share their feedback through our short digital survey, comment cards or by attending our September board meeting.”

Under the proposed increases, base full fares will increase by 11% to 15% across all distance tiers, ranging from $23 for trips under 4 miles up to $63 for trips more than 30 miles.

For riders with disabilities, copays — which are set at 15% of the full-fare rate — will see a proportional 11% to 15% increase, ranging from $3.45 for 0 to 4 miles to $9.45 for trips more than 30 miles.

While the Pennsylvania Lottery funds 85% of fares for seniors 65 years and older, out-of-pocket copays will see dollar amount adjustments between 25 cents and 50 cents for most distance brackets, or a 3% to 50% shift depending on original trip distance, with copays ranging from $1.50 to $8.50.

“When looking at percentages, it’s helpful to see the actual dollar amount behind them,” Schlameuss said. “For example, a percentage increase for senior copays sounds significant, but for most riders that is an out-of-pocket change of just 25 to 50 cents a trip.

“Every dollar from this update goes right back into keeping our buses running and our community connected.”

Passengers and residents are invited to submit feedback by filling out comment cards that are available on all Pocono Pony buses. They can be returned to the driver or mailed to MCTA, P.O. Box 339, Scotrun, PA 18355. People can also take a digital survey by scanning the QR code featured on bus posters or by visiting bit.ly/4gkggJu.

Questions about the hearing may be directed to 570-839-6282. The authority’s website is gomcta.com.