MiWay riders that pay in cash could see a fare hike of 6.7 per cent in January.

The increase would see regular cash fares go up from $3.75 to $4 for seniors, students and adults and is to encourage MiWay riders to move to Presto passes, which are remaining the same since increases in May.

The fare changes, which would add an estimated $500,000 in revenue, could be passed at the Oct. 9 city council session and come into effect on Jan. 6.

As part of the city’s Presto agreement, MiWay is aiming to have 80 per cent of its riders using the passes by 2021. Around 73 per cent of users currently use Presto, while 13 per cent of MiWay fares are currently paid in cash, according to a city staff report.

The potential hike doesn’t sit well with Vincent Puhakka, who is part of the transit advocacy group TTC Riders and a frequent MiWay user.

Puhakka said that the raising the cash fare will impact people with lower-incomes more than other riders.

"My question to council would be why, instead of seeking other revenue sources of funding for the transit, are we leaning on the poorest in our society to fund this difference," he said.

MiWay business development manager Mary-Lou Johnston said that MiWay tries to support riders as much as possible, including lower-fare programs for seniors and lower-income transit users.

"Every year, things may cost more whether it's diesel fuel going up or labour costs going up, so there's always costs to transit," she said. "We have to either increase in taxes or support it with an increase it in fares so we try to strike that balance."

MiWay offers a $1 fare for seniors outside of peak hours, as well as 50 per cent discount on monthly passes for eligible, low-income riders.