For Immediate Release May 19, 2022 Media Contact: Andy Cole Communication and Marketing Manager acole@tarta.com Office: 419.245.5213 Mobile: 567.249.5980
TARTA Outlines Fare Structure For Pilot Program
More than two years after implementing a zero fare policy as a coronavirus safety measure, the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) has released a structure to renew fares beginning with a pilot program scheduled to kick off Monday, Aug. 1.
In preparation to begin collecting fares, TARTA conducted a fare study that analyzed the Authority’s pre-COVID fare structure; conducted a state and national peer and best practice review; and established fare goals of simplification, alignment, affordability and modernization. Study results were presented to the TARTA Board of Trustees at their May 19th meeting.
TARTA’s simplified fare structure adds a day pass that can be purchased on board or at area locations, where pre-COVID day passes were available only through the EZfare app. It also expands the types of riders eligible for discounted fares to include veterans and active-duty military.
How much will it cost to ride the bus?
Pass Type
Pre-COVIDFare Structure
Pilot ProgramFare Structure(Begins Aug. 1)
Regular
$1.50 (no transfers)
$1.50 (free transfers within 2 hours of ticket purchase)
Tokens
$1.36
Not available
Reduced Fare
$0.75
Remains same
TARPS
$3 ($30 10-trip pass)
Remains same
Call-A-Ride
$3
Remains same
Day Pass
$5 (EZfare only)
$3
7-Day Pass
$15 ($7.50 reduced fare)
Remains same
30-Day Pass
$60 ($30 reduced fare)
$45 ($22.50 reduced fare)
TARPS 20-Trip Pass
$60
Not available
TARTA is eliminating tokens and the TARPS 20-trip pass from its fare structure.
“We are proud to be one of the first transit agencies in the country to go to a zero-fare system during the pandemic, but it is now time to invest and expand our system as people are returning to work and re-engaging with life after the pandemic,” said TARTA CEO Laura Koprowski. “This equitable and affordable fare structure recognizes the value of public transportation, and the fares will be re-invested back into the system.
“Our value to TARTA customers is more access and increased reliability as a ride to work, medical appointments, grocery shopping and so many other essential destinations.”
New fare boxes and validators placed on TARTA vehicles will be capable of accepting digital payments through the EZfare app in addition to passes and cash payments.
TARTA will conduct a six-month pilot program – approved by the Federal Transit Administration – and host community meetings in late 2022 before proposing a permanent fare structure to its Board of Trustees.
For more information and answers to frequently asked questions about TARTA’s pilot fare structure, please see below.
TARTA provides a vital link in the Toledo metro area to jobs, education, health care and other destinations. It enables everyone in our community to have access to transportation regardless of their age, race, physical ability or economic background. TARTA is underway with exploring and introducing new initiatives and service options that will enhance convenience and customer experience while moving our region into the future of public transit.
