In a move to make public transit more accessible for those struggling financially, the MBTA Board has given the green light to a fare reduction program for low-income riders. Announced yesterday, the program is set to slash fares by approximately 50% for qualifying individuals, which is anticipated to help riders across more than 170 communities.
The initiative, expected to kick off this summer, aims to dramatically ease financial burdens for those aged 26-64, who are non-disabled and fall below 200% of the federal poverty level. MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng stated, "Expanding low-income fares will help to ensure that our transportation system is more equitable and more affordable." Eng also made it a point to express his gratitude for the governmental support that made this program possible, as reported by the MBTA News.
Financial details of the program estimate costs ranging between $52-62 million, considering administrative expenses and potential upticks in demand. The plan will likely see more than 60,000 eligible riders taking advantage of the discounts, resulting in up to 8 million additional trips each year.
The decision to roll out this program comes after a decadelong consideration and planning. "The MBTA is committed to making meaningful improvements for riders, including making fares more affordable, which will improve quality of life, boost economic mobility, and encourage more riders to return to the system," Eng told MBTA News.
Moreover, in embracing this initiative, the MBTA will also work with a network of Community-Based Partners to manage in-person customer service and eligibility verification, improving program accessibility. Additional adjustments to the fare system include the phasing out of paper Change Tickets and permanently extending the $10 Weekend Commuter Rail Pass to encompass federal holidays.
Community reaction to this advancement has been overwhelmingly positive. Ziquelle Smalls, a senior organizer with Community Labor United, said, "Riders and workers in our Public Transit Public Good coalition celebrate this milestone." Other support came from the Boston Center for Independent Living and the Massachusetts Senior Action Council, praising the initiative for enhancing accessibility, mobility, and financial relief for those in need, as stated by the MBTA News.
