Hamilton Street Railway could introduce affordable fare program for lower-income passengers
Published May 10, 2023 at 12:40 pm
The Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) is asking for public opinion on their new fare program, ‘Fare Assist,’ which has been designed to address transit affordability in the city, through an online survey.
The objective is to establish a unified and user-friendly program that offers accessible and affordable transportation options for individuals in need, regardless of age or ability.
The proposed Fare Assist program focuses on evaluating family income and aims to benefit a significant number of Hamilton residents, specifically 88,380 individuals who are classified as low-income households based on 2021 census data.
Eligible customers, upon approval, would receive a 30 per cent discount on current single-ride PRESTO fares, extending to all members of the household, including spouses and children between the ages of 13 and 17.
The program will also boast a “pay as you go” option, allowing commuters to load funds as needed and eliminating the need to purchase a pass every month.
Those living at or below the Low-Income Measure After-Tax (LIM-AT) are eligible to apply.
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If approved, the Fare Assist program will operate from Jan. 1, 2024, until June 30, 2026. However, during this period, the Affordable Transit Pass and Temporary Transit Fare Special Program will be suspended
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