Valley Metro's reduced fares are a hit, but commuters need to do something first
Gilbert, Ariz.ona (Release): There's a change coming to Valley Metro and it's going to make commuters very happy, but there's something you have to do first. Valley has announced a reduced fare account will be required for purchasing all reduced fares, except for 1-Ride tickets. Applications for these accounts will open on August 1, 2024, and can be submitted online anytime at valleymetrofares.org.
Why do you need a reduced fare account?
Reduced fare accounts are aimed at helping eligible seniors, youth, and people with disabilities access discounted rates. Valley Metro staff will provide any assistance required. See below for locations where you can get assistance with creating an account and submitting the required documents.
Avondale (Civic Center Library), Chandler (Downtown Chandler Library), Mesa (Mesa Main Library, Red Mountain Library, Dobson Ranch Library), Phoenix (Central Station, Ed Pastor Transit Center, Sunnyslope Transit Center), Scottsdale (Via Linda Senior Center | Mondays through July from 1-4pm, Granite Reef Senior Center | Wednesdays through July from 9am-12pm).
To apply and set up your account with a Valley Metro representative, visit these locations:
Valley Metro Mobility Center (Monday-Friday, 8am-4.30pm)
Extended Hours:
July 18 until 7pm
July 27 from 8am-12pm
Tempe Transit Store (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm)
Extended Hours:
June 26 until 7pm
July 6 from 8am-12pm
July 10 & 24 until 7 p.m.
Is the Valley Metro fare system being revamped?
Yes it is. Valley Metro is using new tech to help riders. Passengers can now purchase fares using the Valley Metro App on their mobile devices or with a reloadable fare card. These can be scanned or tapped on new fare readers throughout the system. The new technology allows riders to add funds, track transaction history, view account balances, and more.
What is the Smart Fare System?
Smart Fare is a new pay-as-you-go system that aims to simplify fare payments without increasing costs. Local bus and light rail riders paying full fare will not exceed $4 per day, $20 per week, or $64 per calendar month. The Smart Fare system calculates fares based on trip history, ensuring that once riders reach the daily, weekly, or monthly maximum fares, they will not be charged for additional trips within that period.