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Fare Change Study

Fare Change Study
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North County Transit – San Diego Railroad (NCTD) and San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) are seeking the community’s feedback on possible fare changes to maintain service levels as projected budget shortages over the next few years may impact service frequencies, cleanliness, and overall operations.

To help address these challenges, SANDAG is conducting a Fare Study on behalf of NCTD and MTS to evaluate how a fare change could help sustain service levels as effectively as possible.


Outreach

 

Monday, March 9

Carlsbad Poinsettia COASTER Station

6:20 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

Wednesday, March 11

Carlsbad Village COASTER Station

6:20 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

Thursday, March 12

Palomar College Transit Center

10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 12

Sorrento Valley COASTER Station

3:40 p.m. – 6:50 p.m.

Saturday, March 14

Oceanside Transit Center

11:45 a.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Monday, March 16

San Luis Rey

5 a.m. – 7 a.m.

Tuesday, March 17

Vista Transit Center

3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, March 24

Solana Beach COASTER Station

2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Friday, March 27

Escondido Transit Center

3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Monday, March 30

Old Town Station

1:30 p.m. – 3:50 p.m.

Tuesday, March 31

Oceanside Transit Center – Bus Bay

8:45 a.m. – 11 a.m.



FAQs

What is a Fare Change Study?

The fare change study is a review of current transit fare pricing and structure, including rider costs, ease of use and impacts on ridership. Its goal is to balance affordable fares with the cost of providing service.

Why is it occurring?

Transit operating costs in San Diego have risen significantly in recent years, while funding from sales tax and fares has remained flat or declined. The last time the region evaluated fare prices was in 2019 and monthly passes have not increased since 2008.
In the near future, there will be 20-25% less funding to operate bus and rail services, as well as maintain vehicles, stations, and provide security.

What fare changes are being considered?

The region is considering two scenarios – Package A and Package B. Both eliminate COASTER’s zone-based fare structure and proposes a single flat fare to simplify pricing for customers.

When will the fare change occur?

If approved, the changes are expected to take effect in fall 2026.

How can I provide feedback?

Please complete our Fare Change Survey displayed above.
NCTD will conduct in-person outreach at all transit centers and stations to communicate these potential changes and gather feedback from riders and the public.
NCTD will also host virtual workshops to gather feedback.

 

More Information

Call NCTD Customer Service

(760)966-6500

Visit SDMTS.com/FareChange