Commuters and visitors utilizing Metro Transit services can look forward to fare reductions set to take effect on January 1, 2025, a move aimed at making travel by bus and light rail more affordable and straightforward for all. According to the Metro Council's announcement, the standard fare for non-express buses and light rail services will drop to $2, while youth, seniors, and Medicare recipients will only have to pay $1.
In a bid to encourage frequent use, Metro Transit is also revising its pass prices by reducing All-Day Passes to fall between $2 to $4 and pricing 7-Day Passes at $20, Meanwhile, riders who are Metro Mobility-certified can enjoy one-cent fares across various regional transit providers through June 30, 2025, this initiative represents a pilot program that aims to guide future fare policy decision-making. As the city gears up for a notable upgrade to fare collection technology that would enable payment by mobile phone or credit card, ridership has climbed a significant 8% since last year, as noted by more than 35.8 million rides provided through September.
The push for accessible public transportation was encapsulated by Metro Transit General Manager Lesley Kandaras who said, "Making transit easier to use is key to growing ridership, and we believe simplifying fares will help do just that." Kandaras also highlighted the intention behind the fare reductions by adding, "These changes also support our belief that cost should not be a barrier for those who want or need access to our services." The fare overhaul is expected to generate an additional 926,000 rides and partly offset the costs associated with reduced fares.
For those interested in learning more about the changes or the transportation options that best suit their needs, Metro Transit encourages reaching out to the Transit Information Center or paying a visit to a Metro Transit Service Center, further enhancing customer engagement, the agency is actively inviting customers to acquaint themselves with the forthcoming fare products and various programs.
