Sheboygan bus fares are increasing, the first hike in 16 years
Shoreline Metro fare increases are in line with other comparable transit systems
SHEBOYGAN — For the first time in 16 years, public transit bus fares are increasing in the City of Sheboygan but will remain one of the best deals in the state.
The last time fares were increased were in July 2009 when the city was facing a budget crisis. Then, all city departments were forced to make cuts which included layoffs and reduction of service. Currently, a single trip on the Shoreline Metro costs $1.75 but will increase to $2 starting next year. From 2002 to 2009, the cost of a single trip was $1.50.
Additionally, the Day Pass will increase by a dollar to $4 and the Monthly Pass will increase by two dollars to $50. A mobile app only 30-Day Pass will be $45. All three passes allow for unlimited rides on Shoreline Metro buses. Riders using the Shoreline Metro Connection paratransit service will pay $4 per trip, an increase of $1. Students in the Sheboygan Area School District will continue to ride for free.
The fare increases were discussed Tuesday afternoon at City Hall during a meeting of the Sheboygan Transit Commission. Derek Muench, the city’s Director of Transit & Parking, noted many of the increases are in line with other comparable transit systems in Wisconsin. No citizens or commission members spoke in opposition to the fare increases. The commission voted to approve the increases, which will take effect in January 2026.
Muench also informed the commission that state funding levels for 2025 are 3.26 percent less than 2024, largely due to stagnant state aids and less federal funding. “This is the largest year-over-year decrease in total mass transit aids funding in my 18 plus years in transit,” he said. “Needless to say, it’s very concerning and disappointing.” Muench has contacted local legislators as he said this is a crippling situation that requires the city’s immediate attention.
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