Metro News Release
For immediate release: October 28, 2010
MetroAccess riders to prepay by phone, online or use cash for trips
Tokens, paper fare cards phasing out effective January 31
In an effort to simplify and save customers time in paying fares, Metro is encouraging its MetroAccess riders to use remaining tokens and paper fare cards before January 31, 2011, when they will be discontinued for use. The Metro Board of Directors voted today, October 28, to approve the elimination of the tokens and paper fare cards.
The transition is being planned in preparation for new distance based fares that are being implemented on December 5, as part of the 2011 budget fare changes authorized earlier this year. Under the new fares, continued use of tokens and paper fare cards will add handling time to each trip.
While paper fare cards and tokens are being phased out, Metro is encouraging MetroAccess customers to prepay for trips by phone or online using a credit or debit card with MetroAccess EZ-Pay. The service has been available to customers since May 2009. SmartBenefits customers may also take advantage of MetroAccess EZ-Pay. Customers can view step-by-step instructions on how to use EZ-Pay online, or they can call 301-562-5360 to request that a brochure be mailed to them. In addition to EZ-Pay, MetroAccess fares also may be paid in cash in the exact amount at boarding.
Starting December 5, MetroAccess fares will be based on the distance and time of day that a customer travels. The MetroAccess fare will be twice the amount of what the fare would cost on the fastest comparable trip if the same trip were taken on fixed-route services (Metrobus and Metrorail), up to a maximum fare of $7.
MetroAccess customers will be informed of the exact fare that they are expected to pay for a trip when they book a trip online or with a MetroAccess reservations agent.
Effective July 1, the MetroAccess service area was changed to provide paratransit service to locations within ¾ mile of fixed route service (Metrobus and Metrorail) during the same hours that fixed route transportation services are available. Customers who traveled outside the ADA service area or hours in FY2010 are permitted to continue to do so under a grandfathering provision adopted by the Metro Board of Directors. All grandfathered trips outside the ADA service area will be charged the maximum fare.
News release issued at 4:01 pm, October 28, 2010.