Fare updates from Chatham Area Transit and Hillsborough Transit Authority

Both the Chatham Area Transit Authority (CAT) and the Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART) are making fare adjustments to increase accessibility and improve ridership.  

CAT 

CAT is working to reduce transportation barriers for students across Chatham County. The agency is expanding its Student Zero-Fare Pilot Program through Jan. 31, 2025. The agency first launched the program in 2024, enabling students to access schools, campuses, libraries and other essential destinations at no cost, fostering academic success and increased mobility within the community. 

“We are pleased to continue offering this transformative program for students,” said CAT Board of Directors Chairman Deidrick Cody. “Access to reliable transportation should never be a barrier to education and this initiative is a testament to CAT’s commitment to supporting the future of Chatham County.” 

The extended program not only supports students’ educational pursuits but helps to encourage younger generations to embrace public transit and reduces congestion and the overall environmental impact across the region. 

“Extending the Student Zero-Fare Pilot Program reaffirms CAT’s dedication to building a more connected and inclusive community,” said CAT Interim Executive Director and CEO Stephanie Cutter. “This initiative provides students with a critical resource and inspires confidence in public transportation as a viable option for everyone.” 

The extended pilot program is open to K-12 students and college students. 

HART 

On Jan. 5, HART launched its fare free program on its most popular route, Route 1, with the support of Tampa City Council. With an allocation of $1.65 million in city funds, HART will be able to support free fares for the next year, along with an increase in peak service frequency to every 15 minutes. 

According to HART, Route 1, which serves nearly 3,000 daily customers, operates between the university area and downtown Tampa, Fla., providing vital transportation services to thousands of residents. The agency notes  18 percent of the population in this area does not own a car, more than a quarter live below the poverty line, 14 percent have a disability and 64 percent are minorities. 

“We are thrilled to work with the city of Tampa to provide this essential service to the community, which will not only ease the financial burden on our riders, but also increase service on the route, supporting those who rely on HART to access jobs, education and healthcare,” said HART CEO Scott Drainville. “This initiative represents a meaningful step toward making transit more equitable and accessible for all.” 

The initiative also includes an additional $150,000 in paratransit services, ensuring that transportation remains accessible to those with disabilities. 

"This is a major win for mass transit in our Tampa community," said HART Chair Councilman Luis Viera. "I thank the council members who helped us move past the acute gridlock and, in particular, I salute Councilwoman Lynn Hurtak for her leadership. This proposal will make a difference in the lives of everyday working families. I am proud to work with the public servants, both Republican and Democrat, on our HART board. We work together for the families that HART serves and the workers who make HART function.”