Who Benefits from Free RTA Fare during a Pandemic? The Homeless Sheltering-In-No-Place & Low-Income Essential Workers

32350529464_735309e555_b.jpg

It is critical that public transit officials acknowledge that there are literally no places besides shelter for people experiencing homelessness to go. Those who are homeless are more likely to ride the bus if it's free, whether or not they are traveling to an essential destination. This is a form of discrimination against those without alternatives, and it also causes unnecessary burden for our community’s essential workers.


It has been nearly a month since crucial spaces like public libraries, drop in centers, and churches began closing their doors. This means that there are fewer and fewer places for people experiencing homelessness to have basic access to services and comfort spots in our community that help them endure the crisis of experiencing homelessness.

NEOCH supports the measures Clevelanders for Public Transit (CPT) have asked RTA to take to protect riders and bus drivers. Numerous transit agencies across the country and the vast majority of transit agencies in Ohio are already suspending fares and implementing safety protocols. Emergency funding from both the federal and state government is coming into our community and this is the time to get creative and be inclusive of how we accommodate the needs of the most vulnerable among us.

Here is a letter that CPT sent to RTA and government officials. The letter is still accepting signatures if you'd like to quickly send your letter. Unfortunately, RTA has pushed back by stating that free fares will mean more people choosing to ride the bus that wouldn't otherwise pay to ride. RTA's CEO India Birdsong made a statement saying that RTA will not be suspending fares because of this concern. NEOCH calls for RTA to consider the following actions:

  • Suspend fare enforcement so that we can reduce risk for spreading the virus among drivers and passengers. Social distancing is impossible when everyone touches the fare box and when there’s less than 6 feet between the driver's seat and the fare box), and;

  • Implement rear-door boarding (besides wheelchairs, strollers, etc.) during the pandemic for better social distancing.

This is the time to think outside the box in this time of crisis. RTA needs to think more broadly about how our community can be more inclusive and intentional in our efforts to ensure the safety and health of homeless Clevelanders struggling during this time.

Sign CPT's letter here and share this widely with your network.

Molly Martin