January 02, 2024
Michigan Chronicle
Dec. 18, 2023
Lynzee Mychael
To kick off the new year Detroit is on the move to enhance accessibility and ridership while increasing mobility for all. The Detroit People Mover is set to offer free rides throughout 2024, thanks to the approval of the Detroit Transportation Corporation’s (DTC) Board of Directors. The new initiative, known as the Zero Fare pilot program, is slated to kick off on Jan. 2, 2024, and aims to increase ridership by at least 50% through strategic sponsorships.
The current fare system, a longstanding barrier to convenient use, will be replaced by the innovative Zero Fare program. Robert Cramer, the General Manager of DTC, highlighted the challenges posed by the outdated equipment, which only accepts coins, tokens, or magnetic-striped passes purchased in advance. Maintaining and finding parts for fare gate repairs has become a growing challenge, prompting the DTC to explore alternative solutions.
The decision to launch the Zero Fare pilot program stems from careful analysis and passenger feedback, indicating that the existing fare system hinders seamless use of the People Mover. The initiative not only addresses these concerns but also aligns with the city’s goal of promoting public transportation accessibility.
The DTC anticipates offsetting the loss in rider fare revenues through sponsorships, although specific details regarding sponsors are yet to be announced. This forward-thinking approach aims to eliminate the need for a costly $5 million replacement of the current fare collection system. The success of the pilot program would mean a continued reprieve from such expenses.
“With the number of major downtown activities next year, including the NFL Draft, the Zero Fare Pilot will provide Detroit residents, workers, and visitors with more access to these events, as well as to services and connecting transit trips – all at no cost,” stated Cramer. The initiative is particularly timely, coinciding with a year packed with significant downtown events and activities.
Despite nearly doubling ridership from 2022, the People Mover still operates at only 42% of pre-pandemic levels. The DTC plans to assess the impact of the Zero Fare pilot program and provide an update to the board and the public at the July 2024 Board of Directors meeting. The discussion will revolve around the possibility of extending, altering, or concluding the program for 2025.
The move to offer free rides aligns with the broader trend of making public transportation more accessible and attractive. This bold experiment not only enhances the People Mover’s role as a key component of Detroit’s transit system but also sets an example for other cities grappling with similar challenges. As the city gears up for a year of bustling downtown activities, the Zero Fare pilot program promises to be a game-changer, providing unprecedented access to residents and visitors alike.
