Proposed Fare Changes

BASE CASH FARE WILL REMAIN $1.75

Estuary Transit District is currently undergoing a comprehensive study examining our bus fare. This study came out of Middletown Area Transit’s recent merger with Estuary Transit District, to create one unified system for Middlesex County. Working with our consultants, we have developed an initial set of recommendations to create one new set of fares for the combined system.

In addition to simplifying the fares, we are proposing a series of changes to fares to improve affordability for riders. We propose adding a low-income and student 50% discount, introducing a monthly fare capping system, and removing fares for ADA eligible individuals for traditional fixed bus routes, pending availability of new funding. We also propose making the fare of the on-demand shuttle service know as XtraMile a $1.75, the same base fare as other bus rides.

More information can be found below as well as an opportunity to fill out a survey so we can hear from you. Public comments will help influence our decision making for these changes to the fare.

Please note, these are proposed fare changes only, final changes, if any, will be determined following the comment process and will be formally announced prior to implementation.

Public Meeting Dates and Locations

We are hosting the following public meetings to learn more and comment on the fare proposal. However, comments submitted below and survey feedback will also be considered as part of our public comment review.

• Tuesday, November 15^th, from 6-7 at the Middletown City Hall Council Room. 245 deKoven Drive.
• Thursday, November 17^th, from 6:30-7:30- at the Westbrook Town Hall, Multi Media Room, 866 Boston Post Road.

Proposed Fare Structure

Summary of Major Changes

There are four main recommendations we want your feedback on!

Simplify Fare Structure

Make changes to fare product prices to eliminate inconsistencies between Middletown and Shoreline Routes to create one unified fare

New Reduced Fares for Students and Low-Income Riders

Both Students and Low-Income riders would receive a 50% reduction in fare, making the bus more affordable for those most in need and would help encourage students to take the bus.

Best Fare

Creation of a new fare capping system that will allow riders to stop paying for fare once they have paid the cost of a monthly pass ($52.50). This will mean that riders will never pay more than $52.50 a month for fare, and that they will not have to pay the $52.50 upfront for the monthly pass if they do not wish to.

Eliminate Fares for ADA Paratransit Eligible Individuals on Traditional Bus Routes

This would incentivize ADA eligible riders to use the traditional bus routes for free if able. It would also likely lead to cost savings for the Estuary Transit District. ADA paratransit service fare would still be the same at $3.50.

The estimated date to implement a new fare structure is January 1, 2023.

Have Your Voice Heard!

Take our Quick Survey or Leave a Comment in the Comment Box

Survey Link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LZZZHTB