NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The Metro Transit Authority voted on Thursday to raise bus fares for Nashville riders, remove low-performing routes and end their Night Owl service.

Video: MTA Cancels Some Routes, Raises Fares

The authority decided to increase bus fares by 25 cents, which makes the cost $1.60 per ride.

The rate hike will help pay for a special van service for the elderly and the disabled.

The rate hike is scheduled to take effect in July.

MTA cited increased diesel fuel and other operating costs for the decisions. They said they are attempting to close a $2.9 million funding gap in next year's proposed budget.

"At a time where ridership is increasing, it saddens us to have to make such difficult decisions that affect our customers," MTA Board Chair Gail Carr Williams said. "Unfortunately, in these difficult times, there are not any good choices."

Listed below are the lowest-performing bus routes that will be eliminated:

1 Vine Hill

31X Harpeth Valley Express

13 Sylvan Park

37X Tusculum/McMurray Express

16 Madison/Old Hickory

45X Oak Hill Express

30 McFerrin

Night Owl service

Related Links:

Learn more about the new MTA Fares

Nashville MTA