News

In December 2016, TARC selected SPX Genfare, a new vendor, to implement an innovative Automated Fare Collection System (AFCS). The new system will replace the farebox that has been used on TARC buses for the last 25 years.

Starting today, TARC will be collecting public comment on a proposed fare collection policy. There will be many ways to comment including eight (8) public meetings hosted by TARC where attendees are invited to provide feedback.

The new fare collection system will allow passengers to pay for their rides with the tap of a smartcard as they board a TARC bus. Fares will not increase and cash – exact fare – will still be an option for payment.

The new smart cards will replace all paper products - tickets, passes and paper transfer slips throughout the system, except on TARC3. Electronic transfers between routes will be available after launch.

Passes purchased under the new policy will be activated after the first use, unlike current passes which are activated on specific calendar day(s). TARC also plans to offer new products like the 7-day pass with the new system.

The TARC3 paratransit service will not be part of the initial system change, but is expected to be phased in at a later time.

TARC has planned Open Houses in various communities to gather as much public comment as possible. Below are meeting locations, times and dates and other ways to comment on the fare collection system and policy for those who cannot attend.

"Now is the time to weigh in and have your voice heard while the system is being designed," says Executive Director Barry Barker. "We’ll continue to provide information as work progresses and decisions are made."

Details about the plans, including a draft of the fare policy that will govern the new system are available at ridetarc.org. Comments will be carefully reviewed and considered by the TARC Board of Directors before the new fare policy and other fare collection system decisions are finalized.

1000 West Broadway

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

TARC Route #23

2816 Del Rio Place

5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

On-site Spanish Interpreter

TARC Route #23

2900 West Broadway

8 a.m. - 10 a.m.

TARC Route #23

3912 West Broadway

6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

TARC Routes #23, #27

301 York St.

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

TARC Routes #4, #6, #23

4915 Dixie Highway

6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

TARC Route #18

601 West Woodlawn

10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

On-site Spanish Interpreter

TARC Route #4

Shively City Hall

1901 Park Rd.

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.