HRT Launches Change in Fare Structure
Hampton Roads Transit ©
October 6, 2008
Hampton, VA- Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) launched a new fare structure on Monday that includes a new transit pass designed to make it simple to ride the bus.
The new Go 1 Day pass will allow unlimited travel on any local service – including the Elizabeth River ferry and local shuttle services – while maintaining the same base fare for passengers. The changes will bring an end to free transfers and the hassle customers face when trying to use them before their two-hour time limit expires.
Transfers are issued at the request of the passenger after paying the bus fare. With them, passengers could then board any local HRT bus up to seven times without paying an additional fare.
A study commissioned by the board that governs HRT found a high rate of transfer use among HRT customers. To help keep them mobile, HRT launched a GO 1-Day pass that will allow a passenger unlimited rides on local services until 2 a.m. the following day. The GO 1-Day pass will be sold on the bus in addition to HRT service centers and area ticket vendors for $3.50.
HRT has also eliminated the 1-Ride, the 10-Ride, the 10-Ride for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities, and the Youth 20-Ride fare cards, as well as all Paddlewheel Ferry and VB Wave fare cards. In their place, HRT will introduce 2-Ride and Shuttle fare cards in addition to the GO 1-Day pass. Other fare cards will undergo a facelift to maintain brand consistency.
The Transportation District Commission of Hampton Roads (TDCHR) adopted the new fare policy in March 2008. The changes are expected to increase agency revenue and reduce the possibility of fraudulent use of agency farecards.