Hunter
04/07/25
The two-year Fare Free Iowa City pilot program is set to conclude on July 31st, but city officials are working to extend the service after seeing increased ridership.
The program, which cost the city about a million dollars per year, has seen an over 30 percent ridership in 2024 compared to 2023.
The Daily Iowan reports the largest surge in riders was on the 13-South Gilbert route, which saw 53.6 percent more riders in 2024. The 8-Oakcrest route saw the most significant passenger increase, giving 68,211 more rides in 2024.
Johnson County Mobility Coordinator Kelly Schneider told the student newspaper that Iowa City Transit runs more efficiently due to time saved by not taking fares from passengers. The service also helps the city reach its goal of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2045.
At issue is how to pay for the program; the city council is discussing options such as an increase in the local option sales tax or increased parking fees.