TRANSLINK said on Mondya that its stepped-up fare enforcement efforts are showing positive results, with more customers now paying correct transit fares.
Since August 2024 there has been a significant increase in customers purchasing adult fare passes rather than discounted concession passes – resulting in more than half a million dollars of additional revenue each month.
“Our fare enforcement efforts are making a difference,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “Most of our customers already pay their fair share, and we’re pleased to see even more doing so thanks to our education and enforcement initiatives. Fare revenues are essential to funding and improving the transit system for everyone.”
Enforcement education and checks were ramped up by Transit Security last year as part of TransLink’s $90 million cost-efficiency plan to help address a shortfall of operating funds. TransLink’s goal with the campaign is to deter fare evasion, educate customers on correct fare payments, and improve safety while reducing lost revenue from fare evasion. All revenues earned through the Fare Enforcement Program are re-invested into the transit system.
Fare enforcement results:
* In the second half of 2024, fare enforcement checks increased by 80 per cent compared to the first half of 2024.
– In the second half of 2024, fare enforcement checks tripled compared to the last six months of 2023.
* Since last August, TransLink has observed that 50,000 more Adult Compass Products have been purchased monthly compared to expected purchases (and 50,000 fewer Concession passes have been purchased).
– This change in behaviour has resulted in $3.2 million of additional revenue over a six-month period.
For customers who are unable to pay for transit, resources may be available for free or subsidized transit passes through partner organizations like the Homelessness Services Association of BC. Seniors or persons with disabilities may be eligible to apply for the BC Bus Pass Program for discounted fares.
TransLink said it will continue to monitor fare evasion rates systemwide, and that more time is needed to assess long-term trends. However, early signs show that education and enforcement are driving positive change.
