Members of the board said they recognized and acknowledged the concerns voiced by the public. But they said it is the responsibility of the Utah Legislature to decide who receives subsidies and who does not.

"We're to the point where these rises in cost are falling on our riders," said Necia Christensen, a member of the board. "I support the idea of doing all we can to cut costs, but this has to be done, and this is the best way to do it."

Andre Dulaney, a senior at East High, doesn't think the fare increase is a good idea and will have to consider how the new rates will effect his riding habits. Dulaney said that because his mother usually has the car, TRAX is his primary means of transportation, but is nonetheless upset over the hikes.

"Gas is going up, too, and its been enough of a struggle getting around these days," Dulaney said. "I won't be using TRAX the same now. Two dollars each way every day is a lot of money."

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E-mail: cnorlen@desnews.com