Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Transit topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Winchester adopts limited fare for riders 12–17, school trips covered by school-issued vouchers
Summary
Council adopted a resolution to charge fares for riders ages 12–17 effective July 1, with school trips and school-related functions covered by a voucher system the Winchester Public Schools will distribute; staff will finalize voucher details before school resumes.
The Winchester City Council voted on May 26 to adopt a resolution changing fare policy for riders ages 12–17. Under the adopted Option 2, riders 12–17 will pay the regular fare for most trips, but trips to and from school or school-related functions will be free with vouchers issued by Winchester Public Schools.
Director Perry Isenach and Transit Manager Kenny Johnson said staff and the school division negotiated a voucher framework during the 30-day public comment period. Isenach told council the new fare rule "would be effective July 1" and that staff expects to have the voucher system operational before the new school year. Johnson described options used today (punch cards, electronic payment) and said punch cards remain popular; staff said they are exploring temporary-suspension penalties for frequent no-shows because rides are booked in advance and there is no practical way to collect a no-show fee when cash is used.
Councilors raised concerns about capacity during peak school travel times and whether vouchers would ease pressure on WinReady service; staff said peak times are already near capacity and vouchers would not provide scheduling priority, but the policy ensures school trips are not a barrier to attendance. Council voted to take Option 2 and approved the resolution on first reading as presented.
