To offset rising costs, the Clean Air Express will implement a fare increase on July 1, part of a three-year adjustment plan approved by Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG).

Beginning in July, the Clean Air Express fares will be:
• Monthly Pass: $170 (up from $160)
• 10-Ride Ticket Book: $57 (up from $54)
• Single Trip Cash Fare: $8 (up from $7)

Passengers using the Tap to Ride contactless payment system will continue to receive discounted fares:
• Single Trip via Tap to Ride: $7 (always $1 less than the cash fare)
• Daily Fare Cap: $11.40 (equal to the cost of two one-way trips using a 10-ride ticket)

This marks the second of three annual fare increases approved by the SBCAG Board of Directors in December 2023. The phased approach is designed to give riders time to adjust while maintaining the service’s quality and reliability, according to SBCAG.

“Fare increases are never easy,” said Aaron Bonfilio, SBCAG director of multimodal programs. “We’ve taken a phased approach to help riders gradually adjust while ensuring the Clean Air Express remains the dependable, high-quality service they count on.”
 

Public transit remains cost-competitive when compared to the rising expenses of owning and operating a personal vehicle, Bonfilio said. “For many commuters, Clean Air Express is a smart financial decision – saving on gas, maintenance, and wear and tear – without the stress of driving every day,” he said.

In addition to the fare adjustments, SBCAG has introduced upgrades to improve the rider experience, including the Tap to Ride contactless payment system that makes it easier to pay and track fares.

The Clean Air Express also expanded its service in April with the introduction of midday trips.

The new schedule has been well-received by passengers seeking options beyond traditional morning and evening commutes, SBCAG said.
 
For more about Clean Air Express, visit www.cleanairexpress.com, email info@cleanairexpress.com, or call 805-692-1902.
 
The next and final fare adjustment as part of this series will occur in July 2026, SBCAG reports.