Fare collection updates from MTC, Cincinnati Metro
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) and Cincinnati Metro have made adjustments to improve the way riders pay for fares in their respective regions.
MTC to transition Clipper® START pilot program to an ongoing fare product
On May 28, MTC approved a resolution to transition the Clipper® START pilot program to an ongoing fare product that offers a uniform 50 percent discount for rides on all systems that accept Clipper for fare payment. Clipper START provides transit-fare discounts for lower-income adults age 19 to 64.
MTC says that while there is general agreement between the commission and transit agency staff to transition the pilot to an ongoing fare product, each transit agency’s program participation is subject to its respective governing board approval and other formal actions, such as any required federal Title VI evaluation.
Clipper START began as an 18-month pilot program initiated in June 2020 by MTC and four transit agencies to reduce the cost of transportation for adults whose household incomes are no more than twice the federal poverty level (currently $60,000 for a family of four). An additional 17 transit agencies joined the Clipper START pilot in late 2020 and early 2021.
MTC and the transit agencies in July 2023 extended the Clipper START pilot through June 30, 2025. According to the MTC, the addition of Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority to the pilot and the move to an across-the-board 50 percent discount in January 2024 from the previous range of 20 percent to 50 percent off boosted usage of the Clipper START card.
MTC notes that previously, transit agencies varied in which ones offered discount programs and by how much. With Clipper START, eligible riders can receive a uniform discount, no matter which transit system they use. According to the MTC, as of February 2025, enrollees in the Clipper START program have taken more than six million trips in total.
Cincinnati Metro Board of Trustees approve new fare structure
The Cincinnati Metro Board of Trustees has approved a new fare structure that will take effect on July 16, 2025. The update includes a modest fare increase—only the third in the past 20 years—alongside major improvements to child fare policies and the launch of Tap&Save, a modern payment system that makes riding cost-effective for all customers.
The agency notes the fare increase averages approximately 10 percent across all service types. Under the new structure, local fares will be $2.20, and express route fares will be $3.00. According to the agency, the adjustment supports its continued investment in enhanced service, reliability and customer experience while maintaining one of the most affordable fare structures in the region.
Cincinnati Metro is also updating its child fare policy to better serve families and align with national standards:
- Children under 55 inches tall will ride free with a fare-paying adult (limited to two children per adult).
- Children over 55 inches tall will pay the full fare.
To support this change, each bus will feature a height indicator at the 55-inch mark to help operators and customers easily determine eligibility.
Cincinnati Metro says the update is based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization, which report the average height of a 10-year-old child is 54.5 inches—regardless of gender.
The agency’s new Tap&Save payment model simplifies how riders pay their fare and ensures they always get the best deal. Instead of buying a pass upfront, Cincinnati Metro notes riders can load funds onto their smartphone or smart card and simply tap or scan each time they board. The system tracks daily and monthly spending and automatically caps costs at the equivalent of a 24-hour or 30-day pass, meaning once a rider spends the daily or monthly cap, additional rides are free during that period—making transit more affordable and accessible for frequent riders. Cincinnati Metro will still make physical passes available for purchase online and at the agency’s sales office. Buses will alse continue to accept cash.
“These changes are about fairness, simplicity and value,” said Cincinnati Metro Chief Communications and Marketing Officer Brandy Jones. “With the modest fare adjustment, an updated child fare policy that better supports families and the new Tap&Save benefit that guarantees riders the lowest fare, we’re making it easier for everyone to access reliable public transit while ensuring long-term sustainability for the system. It’s all part of our ongoing commitment to improving the rider experience.”
Cincinnati Metro notes the updates build on the momentum of the agency’s new Rider Rewards program, launched in April 2025, which allows customers to earn points for riding and redeem them for free rides and gift cards.
Brandon Lewis | Associate Editor
Brandon Lewis is a recent graduate of Kent State University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Lewis is a former freelance editorial assistant at Vehicle Service Pros in Endeavor Business Media’s Vehicle Repair Group. Lewis brings his knowledge of web managing, copyediting and SEO practices to Mass Transit Magazine as an associate editor. He is also a co-host of the Infrastructure Technology Podcast.
