Public transit got cheaper for many Utahns this week.
Utah Transit Authority system changes went into effect Aug. 18, replacing the agency’s 20% discount on FarePay card transactions with a ‘fare-capping’ system. The fare cap will ensure passengers don’t pay more than $5 a day or $20 a week on bus, TRAX, S-Line and UTA On Demand services.
“UTA is dedicated to continuously improving its services,” the transit agency said in a news release, “and ensuring that public transit is an accessible, equitable and reliable option for everyone.”
The changes, the agency said, “reflect UTA’s ongoing efforts to innovate and adapt to the needs of riders while sustaining its services.”
For UTA’s premium services — like FrontRunner and express buses — passengers will pay no more than $10 a day or $40 a week.
Christopher Stout, co-founder of the Utah Transit Riders Union, said the changes create more of an incentive for riders who still use cash to switch to a reloadable FarePay card.
“Especially if they are using transit quite regularly,” Stout said. “... It should have the intended consequences, but of course our position has been for quite some time that the system should just be free.”
Reduced fare eligibility
UTA will also offer reduced fares to more customers this year. The reduced rate is typically available to riders 65 or older, children between the ages of 6 and 18, individuals with disabilities and low-income users.
This year, “low-income” riders will be defined as those who make 200% or less of the federal poverty income guidelines — meaning people who make no more than $30,120, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Previously, low-income individuals were only eligible for reduced fare if they made 150% or less of the federal poverty income guidelines — about $22,590.
Those eligible for reduced fare will pay no more than $2 a day or $8 a week for UTA’s standard services, and no more than $4 a day or $16 a week for FrontRunner and express buses.
New fare on UVX
In addition to the fare cap, UTA has begun charging riders on the Utah Valley Express in Utah County after six years of free fares. This bus rapid transit system runs from Provo Central Station to Orem Central Station, and each trip will cost passengers $2.50 per trip. Those who qualify for reduced fares will pay $1.25.
Those with an Eco Pass or a transit pass through their school will still have free access to UVX.
Discontinued and adjusted routes
More frequent service on routes 39, 218 and 201 remains suspended due to labor shortages, according to the transit agency. Route 39 — which runs from West Valley Central Station to 3900 South and Wasatch Boulevard — is UTA’s “first priority” for additional service, the agency said.
“Our best understanding of when and how UTA can add service will be shared in the updated five-year service plan,” according to the agency. “The next draft of this plan will be available for public comment in summer 2024. Check back at rideuta.com/FYSP to stay up to date.”
Ogden’s Route 606, which ran from Enable Industries to Monroe Boulevard, is discontinued. The route served a “small group of riders,” and its main target destination has relocated, according to UTA.
Two routes have been adjusted, including the Ogden-Salt Lake Express on Highway 89 and the Riverdale-Salt Lake Express routes. These two bus routes have returned to regular southbound service on Beck Street to “better serve community needs,” the agency said.
Passengers can visit UTA’s website for more information on changes throughout the transit system.