A Fare Framework: How Transit Agencies Can Set Fare Policy Based on Strategic Goals

By setting goals for fare policy, transit agencies can ensure that their fare pricing and enforcement strategies are consistent with their mission of providing good, affordable service to the public. This report outlines a balanced, goal-driven approach to fare policy: discounts for low-income riders, seniors, and young people; decriminalization of fare evasion; the elimination of transfer fees; a simple pricing system; and generating revenue from non-fare sources. The report also provides case studies of agencies that implemented these initiatives to achieve good fare policy.