Allegheny County in Pennsylvania will launch a new Discounted Fares Pilot Program in mid-November that will provide transit passes to certain county residents who receive other state assistance.
The transit discount pilot is provided through the county’s Department of Human Services (DHS). The 12-month pilot program will be focused on potential participants who are between the ages of 18 and 64, reside in Allegheny County and receive benefits through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
“We know that where people live, work, shop or receive healthcare are not always the same. The cost of transportation can be a barrier to taking advantage of opportunities or accessing services,” said County Executive Rich Fitzgerald. “It’s one of the biggest needs we hear. Our goal is to find ways to help the most vulnerable in our community connect with the resources they need to benefit themselves, their families and their communities.”
The pilot program will measure the effects of discounted public transportation fares in connecting residents to the holistic services available through DHS and to opportunities in the community. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to receive a variety of standard transit passes which they can use for any trip. Participation is voluntary. Individuals who are eligible for fare discounts through an employer, university or other program are not eligible to participate, but will be encouraged to access those programs instead.
The results of the program will assist in determining whether a permanent program is feasible and what such a program may look like to ensure its effectiveness. This will include examining the impact on ridership and whether there is increased access to jobs and services, and other resident needs. A permanent program could be launched in late 2023.
“Making human services more accessible is one of our top priorities,” said DHS Director Erin Dalton. “We expect that this program will go a long way in helping people get to services, medical appointments, jobs or healthy food, while allowing them to spend their money on other necessities.”
Additional information on the pilot program, including detail on how individuals can apply to participate, is expected to be available by the end of October with an official launch date for submission of applications in November.
