For the past year, UTA has conducted an extensive input-gathering effort as the agency explores potential future fare policies that will best serve our riders. We’ve considered several options through this process, including distance-based, mode-based and boarding-based fares, among others. Although our evaluation process continues, we wanted to update you on the process to date, share our findings with the public and answer some commonly-asked questions regarding fares.
What are distance, mode and boarding-based fares?
A distance-based fare charges riders based on how many miles they travel and does not include transfers. A mode-based fare charges a flat fee based on the mode of travel being used, with transfer credit, and a boarding-based fare charges a low fare each time you board a transit vehicle and doesn’t include transfers.
How did UTA gather feedback about alternative fare structures?
Over the past several months UTA has collected feedback from thousands of people through onboard, online and telephone surveys, numerous focus groups, social media, stakeholder interviews and our online forum, Open UTA. We also conducted a distance-based fare pilot program in Utah County from August 2014 to April 2015 to test the technical side of the system.
What did the public have to say?
Overwhelmingly, we heard that you value service and simplicity. The majority of people consistently expressed that they desire a simple, easy-to-understand fare structure with predictable prices. You also told us that you want us to keep transfer credits and like the idea of time-based fares that could include daily, weekly or monthly caps on total transit charges.
What are UTA’s next steps?
In response to the input gathered, we are now revising our potential fare scenarios and preparing for a second round of public outreach. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter to learn about future public hearings and surveys and find out how to participate. Once we review public input, we will identify a preferred fare proposal. If the proposal includes changes to the fare structure, we will then implement a public comment period, evaluate feedback and present our final recommendations to UTA’s Board of Trustees for approval.