Title
Resolution No 2016-02: Authorize RiverCities Transit Staff to Designate Fare Free Dates
Body
SUMMARY STATEMENT:
The Cowlitz Transit Authority (CTA) has regularly approved dates on which fares are waived for all RiverCities Transit riders for community events such as the Project Homeless Connect held in January and the Veterans Stand Down held in October. Waiving fares for all riders on those dates supports those events, and also promotes public transit use and knowledge in the community and increases RiverCities Transit ridership.
The Interlocal Agreement for Public Transportation Services between the CTA and the City of Longview specifies the CTA determines the fares to be charged; thus, waiving fares has required CTA board action. Since the CTA board meets only once per month, obtaining approval to waive fares can present scheduling challenges.
In addition to the above-noted events, there may be other opportunities to waive fares to support community events and to publicize, promote, and inform the community about public transit and the services RiverCities Transit provides to the region. Staff recommends the CTA authorize the Transit Manager and Public Works Director to designate dates on which fares would be waived, limited to a total of 12 days per calendar year without further authorization from the CTA.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY:
Fares would not be collected on each designated fare free day. Fares are a small portion of the operating revenue for RiverCities Transit and the impact of up to 12 fare free days will be negligible.
Recommended Action
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Motion to approve Resolution Number 2016-02.