February 15, 2011 > AC Transit develops a fare policy AC Transit develops a fare policy Submitted By Clarence Johnson The AC Transit Board of Directors is soliciting input on whether to develop a policy that would simplify the fare structure and adjust prices at pre-determined intervals to end surprising, unexpected fare rises and enable the District to better forecast its revenues. A comprehensive policy would make fares more logical, equitable and rational and remove the uncertainty of fare increases for bus riders by keeping them appraised of forthcoming changes well in advance. "Nobody likes to raise fares but a fare policy will make the process easier to understand and prepare for by allowing everybody - the District and its bus riders - to better know when and what to expect," said AC Transit Interim General Manager Mary King. "It certainly gives the District a better way to plan its budget and more accurately gauge how much revenue will be available to maintain operations and keep buses on the street." The Fare Policy is still being developed but it could result in predictable fare increases based on a two-year/three-year cycle. The fare structure would also include changes to pass prices over time. If enacted, the policy would be similar to those at some other transit agencies. AC Transit is currently seeking public input on the plan, including a community meeting to be held on Thursday, February 17, 2011 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the AC Transit General Offices, 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland. The public can also contribute to the discussion online, via e-mail, voicemail, fax, or letter. For instructions, visit www.actransit.org. Details for a comprehensive Fare Policy are still being identified and will take into account the public input. On March 9, the Board will be asked to set a Public Hearing for late April on the fare policy proposal. The Board can then decide to what extent, if at all, it wishes to implement the policy. If adopted by the Board, it is likely the fare structure would not take effect before July 2011. More information about the developing Fare Policy is available online at www.actransit.org. Click on "Find A GM Memo" then search with the keywords "Fare Policy." AC Transit "Fare Policy" Community Meeting Thursday, February 17 5 - 7 p.m. AC Transit General Offices 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland www.actransit.org