OCTA fare increase to alleviate budget problems

OCTA has approved a fare increase. According to the Los Angeles Times (Oct 28, 2008),

The hike would increase the cost of one ride from $1.25 to $1.50 and a day pass from $3 to $4; monthly passes would go from $45 to $55. Other fares, such as those for seniors and people with disabilities, would also increase.

Increasing the fares in line with other transit agencies seems like a responsible move, especially when gas prices have had such a rollercoaster ride. I've read in the news that despite the plunging gas prices, most people believe they'll still increase since gas prices in general have ballooned over the past decade. A post on Streetsblog LA says OCTA is facing a budget crunch: "they have a hiring freeze, just raised fares and are now looking to possible route cuts and/or letting go some employees."
Here's a copy of a table in a fare increase brochure OCTA handed out:

Some links to relevant news articles:

• Orange County Register: OCTA listens to public about plan to increase bus fares
  The Santa Ana Terminal will close; riders will use nearby bus stops.
  http://www.ocregister.com/articles/one-buses-octa-2207921-transportation-bus
• Los Angeles Times: Santa Ana bus terminal to close Dec. 14
  An Orange County Transportation Authority official says the terminal lacks adequate ventilation for the new natural gas fleet. Higher bus fares are also being considered.
  http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/california/la-me-buses28-2008oct28,0,7846111.story
• Los Angeles Times: Orange County bus riders might face fare increases
  The closure of the Santa Ana terminal is also on the agenda of the transit authority's meeting, where officials are set to discuss raising single tickets by 25 cents and monthly passes by $10.
  http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-buses26-2008oct26,0,7044447.story

I'll find out whether this affects students on the U-pass.