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Tuesday, June 6, 2017 - 7:30am
The Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) District will soon announce the date for its service launch. Once service begins, SMART will open with a free introductory period for a limited time, followed by 50 percent discounted rates through the September 4 Labor Day holiday. Regular fares will go into effect on September 5.
The Board also approved a new fare product: a monthly 31-day pass at a rate of $200 per month with unlimited use during that period. Seniors, youth, and passengers with disabilities will receive a 50 percent discounted rate for the monthly pass, paying $100 per month.
“We are looking forward to offering people the opportunity to try our new service free of charge for a limited time,” said SMART Board Chairwoman Debora Fudge. “Once people experience what the SMART train has to offer — a safe, reliable and congestion-free transportation option— we’re confident they’ll get on board.”
The addition of the 31-day pass rounds out several fare options for SMART passengers, including an Eco-Pass that is purchased directly from SMART by employers, colleges, or other institutions such as veterans’ groups, at discounts of up to 50 percent. The Eco-Pass offers unlimited use for up to a year and can be purchased in four, six or 12-month installments.
Regular SMART fares are based on the distance traveled, and surveys show that most people will travel two or three zones. The regular one-way fare is $3.50, plus $2 for each additional zone traveled. SMART fares also include several discount options, including 50 percent off for seniors 65 and older, youth between the ages of 5 and 18, and passengers with disabilities. SMART passengers will use Clipper cards, the same form of payment used by transit agencies throughout the Bay Area, ensuring a smooth and seamless commute.