According to RVA Hub, the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) continues to report increased ridership along most routes. That means the zero-fare program implemented in spring 2020, near the start of the pandemic, is paying for itself.
About the zero-fare program
GRTC spokesperson Henry Bendon said the fare-free initiative led GRTC to become one of the fastest-growing public transportation systems in the country. In July 2024, Consumer Affairs ranked Richmond No. 4 of the top 10 cities for public transportation based on cost, efficiency, and safety. It noted that Richmond’s public transit system is safer and more efficient than many other large cities’ services.
Bendon related:
“Ridership is fantastic, growth is positive, and we’re able to expand this freedom of transit to more communities, into especially more vulnerable communities, who are facing increasing burdens with rent and other transportation costs.”
Over 10.9 million riders used the bus system last year across all routes. According to Bendon, ridership is expected to increase by 60% in the next decade as more routes are added. He also said that GRTC will continue implementing zero fares until further notice.