Fares to ride the Pierce County Ferry will increase by 3 percent in 2015 across all rider categories except for youth.

“This is the second part of a two-step increase needed to help cover increased operational and maintenance expenses,” said Deb Wallace, Pierce County Public Works and Utilities airport and ferry administrator.

Fares also increased by 3 percent in 2014.

The new 2015 rates go into effect Jan. 1. The cost for an adult to walk on the ferry will increase from $5.15 to $5.30. A vehicle 21 feet or less will increase from $17.30 to $17.80 in the non-peak season and from $21.65 to $22.30 in peak season. The cost for youth ages 6 to 18 to walk on the ferry will remain at $3.40.

The five-trip Value Pass will cost $21.20 year-round for walk-on passengers, up from $20.60. The year-round Value Pass for vehicles 21 feet or less will increase from $69.15 to $71.20.

Single tickets purchased in 2014 will expire on Dec. 31, 2014. Value passes purchased in 2014, for both vehicle and walk-on passengers, continue to be valid for 40 days from date of purchase until the expiration date indicated on each ticket. Refunds on unused 2014 tickets must be requested by Jan. 10, 2015. A refund form is available at www.piercecountywa.org/ferry.

The Pierce County ferry system provides service between the town of Steilacoom and Anderson and Ketron islands. Visit www.piercecountywa.org/ferry to see a full list of fare changes.