More than 26,000 letters are being sent out this week to people with GO Pass cards informing them of updates to the program, including the end of free rides on June 26, 2017.
These changes will support the viability of the program while also helping to increase the sustainability of the transit system that provides 40 million rides a year to people to get to work, school, job training, medical appointments and activities across the county.
Milwaukee County and MCTS worked with riders and advocates on changes to the program. In the two years since the GO Pass was launched, more than 13.5 million free rides have been given. By the time all the changes are implemented, an estimated 15 million rides will have been given.
The changes to the GO Pass Program were approved in the 2017 Milwaukee County Budget. The changes are being rolled out in stages:
- A $5 card fee for all new recipients
- Began January 17, 2017
- Financial means test that ensures people who need help the most receive it
- On June 12, 2017, riders who do not meet the requirements will have their cards turned off
- A $1 per day fare for eligible GO Pass riders
- Beginning June 26, 2017
- Administration of the GO Pass program (i.e. issuing new and replacement GO Pass cards) changes hands from the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) administration to the Milwaukee County Aging and Disability Resource Centers (1220 W Vliet St, 3rd floor)
- Beginning June 26, 2017
The changes taking place end the free rides but still provide a significant discount on riding MCTS to people who meet one of the following conditions:
- Must be a Milwaukee County resident and,
- Must be over the age of 65 and currently receiving Medicaid or FoodShare benefits; or
- For residents under 65:
- Must be receiving Social Security income through SSI or SSDI, or have a Veterans Disability designation; and
- Must receive Medicaid benefits or FoodShare benefits.
Riders who do not qualify for the GO Pass may be eligible for the MCTS reduced fare of $1.10 a ride, $2 for a 1-Day Pass, or $32 for a 31-Day Pass.
