Journal Reporter

Taxicab fares in Rosemont haven't gone up for the public in six years, and for residents and seniors, there has been no increase for at least 10-12 years.

But now, they're going up, substantially.

Village trustees approved increases in fares for all categories of riders last week, effective July 1.

Officials at the June 2 village board meeting said the increases are taking place primarily because local fares have fallen behind those of surrounding communities. Keith Kania, the police officer who coordinates taxicab enforcement matters, said the increases are driven mostly by sharply higher gasoline prices that have driven up cab driver costs.

Rate increases are as follows:

* The starting, base (when the ride starts) fare is going up from $1.50 to $2.00.

* The mileage rate is increasing from $1.90/mile to $2.00/mile.

* The flat rate for village residents riding to a destination within the village is going up from $2.50 to $3.50.

* The flat rate for seniors aged 63 and older going to the Cumberland-Higgins shopping area, is up from $3.50 to $5.00.

* The senior flat rate to the Lee-Oakton shopping center in Des Plaines, going up from $3.50 to $5.00.

* The senior rate to Holy Family, Lutheran General, and Resurrection hospitals is going up from $5.00 to $7.00.

The current Rosemont senior card $1.50 discount off any fare is still in effect, said Kania.

The village licenses two taxi companies - Rosemont Cab and Horizon Cab.