An overwhelming majority of Metro riders want the transit system to focus on improving service and streamlining its operating budget before trying to charge passengers higher fares.

"I would like to suggest that the pathetic service we are suffering through now makes it pretty hard to swallow a fare increase," said Glenn Auve, of Arlington.

In all, 422 people spoke at public hearings or submitted written comments to Metro last month regarding proposed increases that would raise rush-hour rail fares between 30 and 80 cents and add $1.15 to the daily parking fees at Metro stations. Bus fares would rise a dime for customers paying cash. A daily rail trip would cost passengers parking at a station and taking the longest trips $15.

Of the responses, 47 percent said the suggested increases are too high, 45 percent said the quality of service did not justify an increase and 26 percent worried passengers would abandon the system.

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Only 8 percent approved of the fare increases.

Riders also wanted Metro to generate more advertising revenue and receive larger government subsidies. They were skeptical of officials' claims that Metro needs the higher fares to stave off service cuts.

"I simply can't believe that you are operating with a budget shortfall running as full as you are," wrote Patricia Webb, of Alexandria.

Metro's board of directors is scheduled to vote on the increases Thursday. The board can approve smaller increases but cannot raise fares beyond the levels discussed at the hearings.

Suburban representatives are outraged that the proposed higher rail fares and stiffer daily parking fee would put the brunt of the increases on their constituency.

"DO NOT penalize us suburban riders on whom you depend!!" wrote Dunkirk resident Denise Warden.

Board members from the District pushed the proposed increases and refused to go along with any plan that would raise bus fares beyond a dime but keep rail fares and parking fees lower, saying most bus passengers could not afford to pay more.

"This rate increase is going to hurt those of us who need public transportation the most and while I understand the need for funding to run the Metro system, why not raise funds from those who can afford it? People who park their cars," wrote Cleveland Park resident Gina Greiner.

Some passengers did support the increases, if service would be improved.

"As a regular Orange Line commuter, I'd be happy to pay the fare increases proposed by Metro," wrote Miles Grant, of Arlington, who wants the new revenue to fund more railcars.

jrogalsky@dcexaminer.com