The price of traveling by ferry in Cascadia continues to rise as government funding fails to keep pace with demand.
This week, fares on B.C. Ferries' major routes to Vancouver Island rose 2.8 percent and fares on smaller routes in the Gulf Islands climbed 4.4 percent. Commercial rates are expected to rise next month. Fares already increased earlier this year to cover then-rising fuel costs.
Meanwhile Washington State Ferries, which increased fares by 6 percent in March, is considering another hike of 5 to 20 percent. This month the system will start charging for wi-fi Internet access, a service used by thousands of commuters. It will soon cost $29.95 a month.
It's unclear why ferry users are expected to pay directly for for transportation infrastructure while drivers get free use of the region's clogged roads. B.C.'s transportation minister said the increases won't affect the economy and dismissed complaints, saying people will adjust.