Hunter
05/18/23
The Iowa City City Council is considering a zero-fare public transportation system to be implemented by as early as this summer.
The Press-Citizen reports evaluating the feasibility and funding sources needed for such a system is part of Iowa City’s Strategic Plan through 2028. Fare revenue made up about 8% of Iowa City Transit’s funding sources in fiscal year 2022.
Darian Nagle-Gamm said having zero-fare public transportation would address a number of goals. It’s projected that ridership would increase anywhere from 20 to 60 percent and help cut down on the city’s carbon footprint. It would also address climate, equity, economic and livability objectives.
Services are currently free for riders 65 and older and qualified persons with disabilities, Medicare card holders and Johnson County SEATS card holders. Youth pay half the regular $1 fare, and riders for paratransit operations are charged $2.
If the City Council acts on the proposal, riders could stop paying fares by this summer or fall, and continue until 2025. The program would be revisited annually.