Starting February 1, there’s a brand new ticketing structure for Metra commuters.
According to Metra, these changes include a new fare structure, closure of its remaining ticket windows and elimination of the 10-Ride Ticket and $100 Super Saver Monthly Pass. The railway company will also implement the Access Pilot Program, an 18-month reduced fare program for low-income riders.
Due to the new fare structure, the number of Zones will be reduced from 10 to 4, with all downtown stops in Zone 1 and outer stations designated Zone 2 to 4. The change could bring increases or decreases in ticket prices for riders as costs are determined by distance traveled. Depending on inter-zone travel, monthly passes now range from $75 to $135 while one-way ticket costs range from $3.75 to $6.75.
Because the remaining ticket booths have been shuttered, some agents have been repurposed as customer service representatives. Commuters will have to purchase tickets either through the Ventra app, from new ticket vending machines or directly from conductors on the train.
The Access Pilot, the reduced fare program, will provide cost relief for all Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipient households within Cook, Dupage, Kane, Lake, McHenry and Will counties. The joint effort between the Regional Transportation Authority, Cook County and Metra will aim to test how transit agencies can address problems related to rider accessibility, according to an RTA press release.
All additional information on zone restructuring and fare changes are available on Metra’s website. Applications for the Access Pilot can be found here.