Pierce County officials announced Thursday fares to ride the Pierce County Ferry will increase by 3 percent next year and again in 2015 across all rider categories except for youth.

The new 2014 rates go into effect Jan. 1. The cost for an adult to walk on the ferry will increase from $5 to $5.15, while a vehicle 21 feet or less will increase from $16.80 to $17.30 in the non-peak season and from $21 to $21.65 in peak season. The cost for youth ages 6 to 18 to walk on the ferry will remain at $3.40.

The five-trip Commuter Pass will be renamed the Value Pass, and will cost $20.60 year-round for walk-on passengers, up from $20. The year-round pass for vehicles 21 feet or less will increase from $67.15 to $69.15.

Single tickets purchased in 2013 will expire on Dec. 31. The five-trip Commuter Pass purchased in 2013 will continue to be valid for 40 days from date of purchase until the expiration date indicated on each ticket.

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

The Pierce County Ferry system provides service between the town of Steilacoom and Anderson and Ketron islands.

More information is available online at piercecountywa.org/ferry.