BEVERLY — Would you ride Metra more often if offered a loyalty program? And what do you think about the commuter rail service offering off-peak pricing?
These questions and more are included in an online survey launched Wednesday on Metra's website. The survey will be available through March 31. The responses will be used in study that's expected to be completed this summer.
The study was commissioned in July 2016 to evaluate Metra’s distance-based fare structure. The consultant handling the study is looking to recommend various changes including to the existing fare products.
Press Release - Metra seeks input about potential fare options: https://t.co/5rUXsFgmJ5 #Metra
— Metra (@Metra) March 1, 2017
“Different fare options can encourage different riding behavior, and that’s why we are seeking input both from our existing customers and prospective customers as part of this process,” said Don Orseno, Metra's chief executive officer.
Other items on the survey include:
• A one-day pass allowing riders to make round trips, transfer between lines and make unlimited trips inbound and outbound on all lines in a specific zone.
• Replacing the 10-Ride Ticket with a seven-day or weekly pass. This new product would be priced the same as eight one-way tickets.
• Extending the hours of the Weekend Pass to include Friday evening.
• Lowering fares for reverse-commutes and those travelers going between non-downtown stations.
Any proposed changes would be subject to further public comment before being implemented.
“The goal is to come up with a fare structure that works well for our customers and increases ridership and fare revenue that can impact our bottom line,” Orseno said.
