Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Newest SF Muni fare increase may further affect access to education


Newest SF Muni fare increase may further affect access to education

The newest Muni Fast Pass, premiering January 2010, will debut with a new 2-step system, rescinding a well used rider perk for many years. Scores of San Francisco commuters have enjoyed and depended on their ability to use the monthly Muni Fast Pass on Bart as well, for travel within San Francisco to work and to school. But as of next month, not only will the Fast Pass fare increase, but the ability to use the pass on Bart travel within San Francisco will cost an additional monthly fee. Any fare increase directly affects education access for adult learners, but the burden of an even greater fare increase for Bart use will be especially hard to take. Fast Pass users were hit with a $10 increase in July, and now less than 6 months later another increase will take effect. This time a 2-tier system materializes, with a new $60 Fast Pass for Muni only riders, and a $70 Fast Pass for riders who need to use Bart within San Francisco as well.