Together we can make low income fares a reality.
Earlier this year, TriMet and I convened elected and community leaders from across our region to discuss implementation of a low-income fare program for transit riders. Together, we looked at models from around the country, and proposed a plan for a 50 percent daily ticket discount, and a $28 monthly pass for those making less than 200 percent of the federal poverty limit.
Housing and transportation are the two greatest costs for low income people in our region. In fact, 30 percent of transit riders make less than $24,000 per year. Together with your support, we can make a low-income fare program a reality.
The legislature has released its transportation package for 2017, and it includes funding for state-wide transit operations. If secured, TriMet has agreed that this funding will be used to implement a low-income fare program as a priority for our region.
I encourage you to write or call your legislators, or attend a transportation hearing and testify. Ask them to support a transportation package that provides support for our region’s vulnerable populations, AND gets more people using transit which reduces traffic congestion, and air pollution!
You really can make a difference that will affect the lives of many tens of thousands of riders daily.
Find your Legislator