First Day of Fare Service Tentatively Scheduled for January 2, 2024
In March 2020, Green Mountain Transit (GMT) and other transit providers across the state suspended fare collection due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Fare-free service was introduced as a safety measure to minimize potential infection and expedite boarding. Pre-COVID, fares collected on GMT buses totaled about $2.5 million a year, and federal funding under the American Rescue Plan Act made up for that loss of revenue. In 2023, GMT received state funding which allowed us to continue fare-free service for one more year.
Public Engagement
GMT will be holding a series of public meetings to receive public comment on the draft fare policy scheduled to begin in January 2024.
When: August 15, 2023 at 6:00PM
Winooski City Hall
27 West Allen Street, Winooski
When: August 16, 2023 at 12:00PM
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington
152 Pearl Street, Burlington
When: August 16, 2023 at 6:00PM
Art So Wonderful, University Mall (across from IHOP)
155 Dorset Street, Unit B1, South Burlington
When: August 15, 2023 and August 17 at 12:00PM
Via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87120736247
Meeting ID: 871 2073 6247
—
One tap mobile
+13052241968,,87120736247# US
Meeting ID: 871 2073 6247
If you are unable to attend these meetings or have questions, please offer public comment by emailing Jamie Smith at jamie@ridegmt.com or by calling 802-540-2468 by August 31, 2023.
- Persons with disabilities who require assistance or special arrangements to participate in programs or activities are encouraged to contact Jamie Smith at 802-540-1098 at least 48 hours in advance so that proper arrangements can be made. Hearing disabled patrons can contact GMT through the Vermont Relay Service (711).
- Free transportation to/from GMT public hearings is available within the GMT service area. To make advance arrangements, please call GMT’s Customer Service Representatives at 802-540-2468.
What are the Specific Routes that will Return to Fare Service?
The following routes will return to fare service:
- Chittenden County local fares.
- Chittenden County commuter service (116 Commuter (GMT’s trip only), Milton Commuter, Jeffersonville Commuter).
- LINK Express service (Montpelier LINK, St. Albans LINK).
Why are Fares Returning on These Routes?
The State of Vermont has taken the position not to provide funding to extend zero-fare operations in perpetuity on urban public transit. Given the choice of cutting service or restarting fares, the Green Mountain Transit Board of Commissioners chose to restart fares. GMT cannot cover the expense of existing service with zero fares unless the state provides this assistance.
Why are Rural Routes Remaining Fare-Free?
The State of Vermont has taken the position to provide funding to extend zero fare operations on rural public transit. All rural public transit routes will continue to operate zero fare service, including our operations in Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, and Washington Counties (except LINK service in these regions).
Press Release
For specific questions or comments related to fare resumption, please contact
Clayton Clark, General Manager
cclark@ridegmt.com | 802-540-0491
or
Jamie Smith, Director of Marketing and Planning
jamie@ridegmt.com | 802-540-1098