SERVICE REDUCTIONS TAKE EFFECT JUNE 6;
$1 EXPRESS FARE INCREASE TAKES EFFECT JULY 1

TARC is reducing service and adding an express fare to help make up a projected $5.5 million shortfall in the coming Fiscal Year, which begins July 1. Four routes will be eliminated and service will be changed or reduced on 20 routes.

Q. Why is TARC reducing service? On April 26, the TARC Board of Directors took action to help TARC make up a projected $5.5 million shortfall by eliminating four local routes and reducing service on 20 additional routes. The slate of schedule reductions will save TARC an estimated $2 million. The changes take effective Sunday, June 6. New schedules can be found on buses or picked up at the following locations: The Nia Center, 2900 West Broadway; TARC Headquarters, 1000 West Broadway; Louisville Free Public Library, 4th and York; at libraries and businesses throughout the region. You can also request schedules by calling 585-1234 or by clicking on the New Route icon to the right of this page.

Q. How were the proposed cuts determined? TARC tried to minimize the impact of the cuts by reducing service on routes with the fewest riders or those with alternative service. The goal was to preserve service on our busiest, core routes and those that serve key employment centers and schools. The board tried to make sure no geographic area was disproportionately affected.

Q. Why are express routes targeted for a fare increase? Since express routes generally travel longer distances, it is a more expensive service to provide. Many cities have higher fares for express routes or "zoned" fares for longer-distance trips.

In February, 12 of 16 express routes were proposed for elimination. During the public comment period in March, many express riders said they would pay an additional fare as a way to keep their popular express service. The TARC Board of Directors voted in April to add an additional $1 fare for express service only. However, it is expected that some express routes will also see some reductions in the number of runs.

Q. How do I pay the additional express fare? TARC is introducing an express monthly pass for $80 to be used on any express bus. It can also be used on any other route. When paying cash fares in express routes, an additional $1 should be added to the fare. When using tickets to board an express bus, a transfer or a regular monthly pass, an additional $1, or the equivalent in TARC tickets must be added.