Considerations and Recommendations for Implementing Zero-Fare Policies without Sacrificing Service (Emerging Leaders Program)

In recent years and especially since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, some transit agencies have implemented, piloted, or consider zero-fare on some or all of their routes and services. While there is a growing body of research on this topic, transit agencies and local political leaders may not be aware of the findings and lessons learned from other agencies, or how local characteristics might impact outcomes. For this project, the team reviewed the history of the free fare movement, conducted a literature review, analyzed new survey data, and conducted interviews of staff at agencies that have implemented zero fare policies. The final deliverable includes a decision tree to help agencies ask themselves a series of questions to consider the complexities of free fares and assist in informed decision making.

Presenters:

• Nadine Chalmers, Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) Metro
• Tricia Chastanet, Connecticut Department of Transportation
• Elias Fischer, HNTB Corporation
• Taylor Gill, Metro-North
• Kaj Huddart, Transit app