LA Metro Proposes Free or Reduced Fares to Victims of Wildfires
Free or Reduced Fares for Six Months
LA Metro is proposing to help victims of the devastating fires in Los Angeles County by providing them with free or reduced fares on its system for six months, Metro Board Chair Janice Hahn announced on Thursday, January 16.
Eligibility Extended
The motion by Supervisor Hahn, who was joined by supervisors Kathryn Barger, Lindsey Horvath, and Hilda Solis, would extend the transit agency’s low-fares program designed for those with reduced incomes to all impacted county residents, including those who’ve lost their homes or were evacuated, including affected Metro employees.
Outreach Efforts
If approved, LA Metro plans on sending outreach teams to evacuation centers and resource centers to sign up residents for the program.
Impact on Metro Employees
As of Thursday, Metro has reported that at least 19 Metro employees had lost their homes in the wildfires and at least 46 have been displaced.
Background on the Low-Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) Program
The LIFE program offers people a 90-day pass for free rides, automatically added to their TAP cards. It can be used on Metro as well as many regional transit systems. After 90 days, the individual can add 20 free regional rides onto their TAP card every month by using a local TAP vendor, going online at taptogo.net or by calling 1-866-827-8646.
Current Service Status
As of Thursday, rides on Metro buses, trains, and micro-transit were free, as long as wildfire conditions exist, Metro reported. All rail lines are running at regular service. Bus Lines 134 and 602 are canceled due to the Palisades Fire. Detours are in effect on Bus Lines 233, 267, 296, 660, 662, and 761. Metro Micro service in Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre has been suspended north of Sierra Madre Boulevard, the agency reported.
Conclusion
LA Metro’s proposal to provide free or reduced fares to victims of the wildfires is a thoughtful and practical way to support those affected by the devastating fires. By extending the Low-Income Fare is Easy program to all impacted county residents, including those who’ve lost their homes or were evacuated, LA Metro is demonstrating its commitment to helping those in need.
FAQs
* What is the Low-Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) program?
+ The LIFE program offers people a 90-day pass for free rides, automatically added to their TAP cards. It can be used on Metro as well as many regional transit systems.
* How does the LIFE program work after 90 days?
+ After 90 days, the individual can add 20 free regional rides onto their TAP card every month by using a local TAP vendor, going online at taptogo.net or by calling 1-866-827-8646.
* Are there any current service disruptions due to the wildfires?
+ Yes, Bus Lines 134 and 602 are canceled due to the Palisades Fire. Detours are in effect on Bus Lines 233, 267, 296, 660, 662, and 761. Metro Micro service in Pasadena, Altadena, and Sierra Madre has been suspended north of Sierra Madre Boulevard.
* How can I sign up for the LIFE program?
+ If approved, LA Metro plans on sending outreach teams to evacuation centers and resource centers to sign up residents for the program.
