Fare Free Business Case Evaluation

Project Overview

In support of its mission to improve equitable access throughout the region, MVPC is evaluating Merrimack Valley Transit’s Fare Free Program. The purpose of this analysis is to better understand the full picture of benefits, opportunities, and risks to the current Fare Free program. The program will then be analyzed in the context of MeVa’s mission, as defined by Merrimack Valley Transit’s Advisory Board.

Policymakers often pit ridership against operating costs to understand the value of transit, but these simple measures fail to capture the full span of benefits to riders and operational efficiency that free transit provides. For example, MeVa believes that its fare free policy has reduced driver-rider conflict, and as a result MeVa has avoided the labor shortfall that other transit providers are experiencing throughout the nation. This potentially yields reduced costs associated with turnover, such as hiring and training. Additionally, better access to transportation improves social connectivity and allows riders to invest their money in other needs, such as groceries or childcare.

This study intends to substantiate and quantify these and other metrics where possible to depict the program in a holistic manner. The study will also identify the risks to the program, and risks to the region if the program is discontinued.

When will it happen? The evaluation is currently ongoing, and is anticipated to be complete in early winter of 2024.

I have questions. Who should I contact? Questions about the study should be relayed to MVPC at [email protected]. Other questions or needs related to existing bus operations should be directed to MeVa, which can be reached a [email protected] or (978) 496-6878. Riders and potential riders may also visit https://mvrta.com/ for more information about routes, schedules, and service.