Whatcom Transportation Authority will hold a public hearing to get input on proposed changes to the ways it collects fares.

New fare boxes will be installed this year with new payment options, if the project stays on schedule. WTA staff recommends instituting a $3 day pass and a 10-ride ticket for $9, while eliminating tokens and free-ride coupons. Social-service agencies would distribute free day passes to low-income riders.

There is no proposal to change the $1 per trip fare this year.

Payment options such as smart cards and debit cards are not likely to be approved this year but will be an option with the new fare boxes.

The hearing in front of the WTA Board of Directors is at 8 a.m. Thursday, March 21. The meeting will take place in the Whatcom County Courthouse, 311 Grand Ave., Bellingham.

Reach Ralph Schwartz at 360-715-2289 or ralph.schwartz@bellinghamherald.com. Read his politics blog at blogs.bellinghamherald.com/politics or follow him on Twitter at @bhamheraldpolitics.