Media Relations Contact:
Morgan Lyons

April 25, 2001

Fare changes effective September 24, 2001

DART Board of Directors Changes Fare Structure

The DART Board of Directors has approved a new fare structure that leaves basic cash fares, discontinues the use of transfer slips, and streamlines pass and ticket programs. The changes take effect with DART's September 24 service improvements, including the first leg of the Northeast rail extension serving the new White Rock Station.

One-way regular bus and train fares will remain $1, but passengers transferring to a second DART bus or rail route must buy a $2 Day Pass, which is good until 3 a.m. the next morning. Day Passes will replace bus transfer slips, and will be sold on board DART buses, Trolley-Buses and through Ticket Vending Machines at all rail stations.

The new fare structure will help the agency prevent fare evasion and avoid a general fare increase. The modifications also will make it more convenient for customers to transfer between DART buses and trains.

"We're committed to low fares," DART President/Executive Director Roger Snoble said. "We've not had a fare change since 1995 and we want to take steps that will help generate income without an overall fare increase."

The new fare structure discontinues the $2 employers' discount for Monthly Passes and the 11-ride Bonus Pak. For the first time, DART will offer free bus and train rides to all certified Paratransit customers with disabilities. Another first will be the new DART Annual Pass providing individual customers with unlimited rides all year long. The annual EmployeE-Pass -- available exclusively to employers who buy it for their entire workforce -- will be as low as $30, and DART member city governments will qualify for a 25 percent discount. DART's board will consider increases in Monthly Passes for students and seniors, from $10 to $15, at a later date.

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