Advantages and Disadvantages of Fare-Free Transit Policy
Document Type
Report
Publication Date
2002
Subject Area
place - north america, economics - appraisal/evaluation, policy - fares, policy - equity
Keywords
impacts, costs, advantages, disadvantages, fare-free, transit policy
Abstract
This synthesis of fare-free demonstrations offers information as to the impact, cost, advantages, and disadvantages of fare-free implementation in various transit systems. The main thrust of this synthesis is that while fare-free policy can be recommended for smaller transit systems, it is questionable as to whether fare-free implementation would be appropriate for larger systems. There are consequences to any operational transit policy, and those who make decisions about whether to offer fare-free service should be aware of the range of possible consequences. There are many factors which influences whether fare-free transit would be a negative or positive experience in any given transit system environment. This report presents both the advantages and disadvantages of fare-free service in differing transit system environments within the framework of several policy questions and is meant to serve as a guide for those considering whether to implement fare-free policy within a specific transit system.
Rights
Permission to link to this report has been given by Center for Urban Transportation Research, copyright remains with them.
Recommended Citation
Perone, J.S. (2002). Advantages and Disadvantages of Fare-Free Transit Policy. Report No. NCTR-473-133,BC137-38, Performed by Center for Urban Transportation Research, 28 pp.
