HART Route 1 Pilot: Frequency Increases Sustained Ridership Gains Despite Fare Return
HART reported that its Route 1 pilot (fare-free Jan–2025 with added frequency) increased ridership and on‑time performance; HART maintained increased frequency in 2026 with fares reinstated and continues monitoring ridership and operator/rider feedback.
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HART staff told the TPO on Aug. 12 that changes to Route 1 have produced measurable ridership and reliability gains. Jesus Peraza Garcia, HART staff, said the pilot launched in January 2025 with a fare‑free period and a weekday frequency increase from every 20 minutes to every 15 minutes, and that the 2025 pilot cost about $1.65 million (roughly $1.0 million for fare replacement).
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