
Ben Franklin Transit (BFT) has announced efforts to ensure a balanced approach to fare adjustments.
According to a release, BFT has been directed to revisit and reassess the current fare structure and propose potential updates that better reflect evolving operational and financial realities.
The announcement comes on the heels of voters rejecting I-2117 which would have barred state agencies from imposing carbon tax credit trading and repealed a cap and invest program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
In its release, BFT said the reassessment will focus on key areas including:
Ridership Growth: Analyzing how lower fares may encourage increased ridership.Financial Impact: Assessing the effect of reduced fare revenue on BFT’s overall budget and service operations.Transfer Costs: Identifying and addressing challenges associated with costly multi-transfer trips, ensuring fare adjustments reduce barriers for riders.
“Our goal is to strike the right balance between affordability for our riders and the long-term financial health of the transit system,” said Kevin Sliger, Chief Planning and Development Officer. “By considering various factors and gathering public feedback, we aim to create a fare structure that works for everyone.”
BFT plans to present recommendations to the Board later this year and that any proposed fare changes will undergo a public comment period, the release said.