SR 04-12-2022 8A
City Council
Report
City Council Meeting: April 12, 2022
Agenda Item: 8.A
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To: Mayor and City Council
From: Edward F King, Director, Department of Transportation, Transit Planning &
Performance
Subject: Approval of Proposed Changes to the Big Blue Bus Fare Policy
Recommended Action
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the proposed changes to the fare
policy for Big Blue Bus, Department of Transportation.
Summary
Big Blue Bus (BBB) is recommending changes to its fare policy, including adjustments
to the mix of fare products offered, the prices of fare products, and the fare media
accepted on BBB buses (cash, mobile tickets, TAP passes, etc.) as well as associated
policy changes to support equitable and convenient fare access. The goals of the
proposed changes are to:
• Promote equitable and inclusive public transportation to our community through
lower fares to our customers and increase BBB ridership;
• Align fare products with customer preferences;
• Simplify fare structure;
• Maintain customer safety; and
• Improve route on-time performance.
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Over the past year, BBB has piloted some of the proposed fare changes, initiated and
studied a contactless fare program, and sought customer and community feedback on
the program through public outreach, a public hearing, and community surveys. The
proposed recommendations have been analyzed regarding their impacts on low income
and minority communities, following the guidance established under the Council-
adopted Service Design Performance and Evaluation Guidelines approved in October
2018. The new fare policy also reinstates the acceptance of cash fares on board BBB
buses.
Background
Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, BBB customers paid their fares using one of four fare
media: cash (coins, bills, and tokens), paper passes, TAP cards, or mobile tickets. Cash
and paper passes have long been staples of the BBB fare choices. TAP (LA Metro’s
regional contactless RFID technology fare card) was adopted by BBB in 2015, and
mobile ticketing was added in 2017. TAP was introduced to enable BBB customers to
use a single regional fare card across multiple systems, and later allowed our
customers to gain the benefits of regional fare discounts only available on TAP. With the
adoption of TAP, BBB could also dispense with paper interagency transfers, thereby
lowering waste and trash, and introduce the option of purchasing BBB passes online.
Mobile ticketing was added to keep pace with broader consumer preferences for
convenient fare payment that could be purchased from one’s smartphone and used
immediately.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, BBB shut down bus fare collection completely on March
20, 2020, and invited all customers to board and exit through the rear door of the bus for
a period of roughly eleven months. This was done to protect motor coach operators
from infection and eliminate the need to touch “high touch” surfaces like the farebox to
protect customers. During this period of suspended fare collection, staff examined more
sustainable ways to protect motor coach operators and customers from the risks of
close contact with infected persons and of contacting high touch surfaces.
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When fare collection resumed in February 2021, BBB implemented changes to the fare
collection process, some intended to be permanent, and some on a pilot basis. Motor
coach operators were now separated from customers by tempered glass and metal
barriers to minimize extended close contact. In addition, a contactless fare pilot was
implemented to eliminate the need for customers to touch the farebox (a high touch
surface), and to speed up the fare payment process. The pilot included no longer
accepting paper passes and cash payment on board and using only contactless
products to pay fares when boarding. This moved all cash transactions off the bus to
other locations.
Contactless fare payment brought multiple benefits to both customers and BBB. It is
significantly faster than cash and paper pass fare payment and the reduction of time
spent at the farebox reduced Covid-19 exposure time for motor coach operators and
customers. Paying fares with contactless media also had the adjunct benefit of
speeding up boarding, which reduced time spent at each bus stop and provided
customers with faster overall travel time. Accepting only contactless fares introduced
many of our cash paying customers to the TAP system, and TAP fare payment currently
constitutes 85% of all fare payments on BBB buses. This introduction to TAP has
increased customer access to regionally funded discounts based on income, age,
disability, and school enrollment status. Lastly, contactless fare payment provided
economic efficiencies that could be reinvested into the system for the benefit of
customers. Other elements of the contactless fare pilot included initiatives designed to
enable customers to adjust to contactless fares and various ways to measure the
impacts of the pilot. A full list of those initiatives is included as an attachment.
Discussion
The contactless fare pilot provided extensive data for analysis and approximately 94%
of customers adapted to the contactless fare system. While, at the beginning of the
pilot, more than 12 percent of customers were unable to pay their fare, by the third
month of the pilot, that percentage had declined to 6 percent, where it remains currently.
This is comparable with pre-pilot trends, with approximately 6 to 7 percent of customers
refusing to pay any fare or paying only a fraction of the fare.
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The original fare proposal for public hearing and public input that was developed by staff
in February 2022 generated strong responses from the public. More than 700 people
filled out an online survey or attended a public hearing on the proposals. Some
proposals were well received, and others generated a strong negative response. The
final recommendation of staff for permanent changes to the fare proposal considers
public input on the proposals and is substantially different from what was presented at
the public hearing and on the survey. In short, staff listened to the public, and removed
many unpopular proposals from the final recommendation.
The fare policy recommended by staff seeks to retain some benefits provided by
contactless fares and to share those benefits with customers by lowering prices of some
fares. The recommendation also seeks to continue the development of robust fare
distribution systems to ensure contactless fares are convenient, practical, and
accessible to all customers. Finally, the recommended fare policy allows customers to
pay their fare with cash upon boarding.
Public Response to Proposed Fare Policy Recommendations
The following tables note each fare proposal originally presented to the public in
February 2022, the public response to the proposal, and the final staff recommendation.
Proposals recommended for implementation are listed first, then proposals not
recommended for implementation. A general discussion of the recommendations
follows the tables:
Recommended
Original Fare Proposal
Public
Response
Reason(s) for
Recommendation
Percent of boardings
during Pilot
Provide a free BBB to BBB
transfer within 2 hours on
contactless single ride &
multi-ride passes (like
Metro policy)
Favorable Favorable public response,
rewards users of our most
popular fare options,
impacts the 62% of
customers who report
transfer activity on some
trips.
23.0%
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Recommended
Original Fare Proposal
Public
Response
Reason(s) for
Recommendation
Percent of boardings
during Pilot
Replace the $14 Regular
13-Ride Pass ($1.07 per
ride) with a 10-Ride Pass
at $9 ($.90 per ride)
Favorable Favorable public response,
popular fare product with
vulnerable populations,
lower price encourages
use of contactless fares.
2.3%
Replace $6 Senior,
Disabled, & Medicare 13-
Ride Pass ($.46 per ride)
with a 10-Ride Pass at
$4.50 ($.45 per ride)
Favorable Favorable public response,
popular fare product with
vulnerable populations,
lowered price encourages
use of contactless fares.
<1%
Make permanent the
current temporary price of
Youth 30-Day Unlimited
Pass at $19
Favorable Favorable public response,
makes current condition
permanent.
1.4%
Raise the age for children
to ride free, from 4 years
old and under to 5 years
old and under
Favorable Favorable public response,
closes gap between small
child free ride, & K-12 ride
free through Metro GoPass
program.
<1%
Accept Metro Regular 1-
Day Pass on BBB
Favorable Favorable public response,
solves confusion among
tourists who purchase
Metro Day passes at Santa
Monica E-Line stations, but
which are not currently
accepted on BBB.
Not applicable
Accept Metro Senior,
Disabled, & Medicare 1-
Day Pass on BBB
Favorable Favorable public response,
solves confusion among
tourists who purchase
Metro day passes at Santa
Monica E-Line stations, but
which are not currently
accepted on BBB.
Not applicable
No longer accept paper
passes on board, moving
all pass sales to
contactless fares
Favorable Favorable public response,
reduces waste, increases
travel speed & efficiency,
lowers costs of fare
collection.
0%
(14.3% pre-COVID,
before pilot)
No longer accept BBB
tokens on board
Favorable Favorable public response,
council previously
approved ending of token
sales.
0%
(<1% pre-COVID,
before pilot)
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Recommended
Original Fare Proposal
Public
Response
Reason(s) for
Recommendation
Percent of boardings
during Pilot
Continue to allow
customers with no fare or
partial fare to ride anyway
Favorable Favorable public response,
continues long-standing
policy of not refusing
service based on not
having proper fare.
5.0%
Make BBB contactless fare
passes available at more
locations. Recommend
paying 3.75% commission
(same as Metro) to TAP
retailers who carry BBB
passes.
Favorable Favorable public response,
assists with challenge of
getting more local retailers
to carry BBB passes.
Currently no commission
on BBB pass sales.
Not applicable
Make more pass vending
machines available at more
locations.
Recommendation to
pursue solutions that allow
customers to enjoy
contactless fare
advantages (machines or
technologies)
Favorable Favorable public response.
Metro machines do not sell
BBB passes. BBB to
explore technologies &
systems to make
contactless fares more
convenient, i.e., fare
capping, open payment, &
others.
Not applicable
Create a program to
identify & address the
transit fare needs of
vulnerable populations
Favorable Favorable public response,
37% of BBB customers are
unbanked or without smart
phone. Contactless fare
collection offers access to
county-sponsored reduced
fares. Program seeks to
close the reduced fare
access gap.
Not Applicable
Not Recommended
Original Fare Proposal Public
Response
Reason(s) for Not
Recommending
Percent of Boardings
during Pilot
No longer accept cash on
board BBB
Un-favorable Approximately 2/3 of
customers recommend
cash acceptance on
board. Recommend
continued cash collection
for single fare regular,
senior, disabled &
Medicare rides.
0%
(32.8% pre-COVID,
before pilot)
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Not Recommended
Original Fare Proposal Public
Response
Reason(s) for Not
Recommending
Percent of Boardings
during Pilot
Reduce single ride regular
contactless fare from $1.10
to $1.00
Favorable Retention of the expense
of cash collection on
board makes some fare
reductions financially
infeasible currently.
However, the proposed
free BBB to BBB transfer
will reduce costs by as
much as 50% for those
who transfer.
47.1%
Discontinue selling
Regular 1-Day Pass
Mixed
response
Some customers
earnestly requested
retention of this pass.
<1%
Discontinue selling Senior,
Disabled, & Medicare 1-
Day Pass
Un-favorable Unfavorable public
response. Recommend
retaining pass.
<1%
Discontinue selling 7-Day
Pass
Mixed
response
Some customers
earnestly requested
retention of this pass.
1.1%
Discontinue selling Annual
Pass
Mixed
response
Some customers
earnestly requested
retention of this pass.
<1%
Reduce price of Regular
30-Day Unlimited Pass
from $50 to $30
Favorable Retention of the expense
of cash collection on
board makes some fare
reductions financially
infeasible currently.
5.7%
Reduce price of Senior,
Disabled, & Medicare 30-
Day Unlimited Pass from
$24 to $20
Favorable Retention of the expense
of cash collection on
board makes some fare
reductions financially
infeasible currently.
2.1%
Final Recommended Fare Proposal after Public Engagement Process
The final recommended fare proposal has three distinct elements.
1. Changes to fare products, including resuming accepting cash payments
2. Reducing the types of fare media accepted on board
3. Increasing convenient access to contactless fares, especially amongst unbanked
customers and those without smart phones
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These three elements are designed to make bus riding safer, more attractive, and
ultimately easier to use. Factors affecting each are interrelated, and the elements work
together to produce a better outcome for customers.
Changes to Fare Products
While BBB has restored service to 81% of pre-pandemic levels, only 46% of pre-
pandemic ridership has returned. As staff looks toward a fare policy specifically
designed to attract ridership, it has been well documented in the transit industry that
lower fares attract more customers.
The proposed changes to fare products include structural changes to passes, as well as
recommendations to accept two new Metro-issued passes. The new fare policy also
provides for the acceptance of cash fares on board BBB buses. The proposed fare
policy recommends the following changes to passes accepted on board BBB:
• Free BBB to BBB transfer – Currently, customers must pay for each ride on
BBB, even if they need to take two buses to complete a single trip. This proposed
free transfer would provide a free ride on a second BBB if it is within two hours of
boarding the first bus, and if the fare is paid using contactless technology. This
brings BBB fare policy into alignment with Metro fare policy, which also provides
free same-agency transfer using contactless fares. Free transfers cut costs by as
much as 50% for those who must take two buses each way and are proposed for
single ride and multi-ride pass purchases.
• 10-Ride Regular Pass – This pass will replace the current 13-Ride Regular
pass. The price per ride is being reduced 16% from $1.07 per ride ($14 divided
by 13 rides) to $.90 per ride ($9 divided by 10 rides). The ride count on the pass
is being changed from 13 rides to 10 rides to simplify the mathematical equation
for customers attempting to determine if this pass is the best option for their
needs. These passes are particularly useful for customers who regularly use
BBB, but not often enough to make a 30-Day Pass an economical choice for their
needs. Each ride will include the free BBB to BBB transfer within two hours.
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• 10-Ride Senior, Disabled & Medicare (SDM) Pass – This pass will replace the
current 13-Ride Senior, Disabled & Medicare Pass in the same fashion as the
13-Ride Regular Pass. The price per ride is being reduced from $.46 per ride ($6
divided by 13) to $.45 per ride ($4.50 divided by 10 rides). This pass will include
the free BBB to BBB transfer within two hours on all 10 rides.
• 30-Day Youth Pass – Over the last few months, use of this pass has generally
been overtaken by distribution of GoPass, Metro’s free pass program for
students introduced in October 2021. GoPass has been adopted by Los Angeles
Unified Schools, Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District, and many other
public and private institutions serving K-12 populations. However, for students at
schools that have not adopted GoPass, the 30-Day Youth Pass remains a good
option. The proposed pricing of $19 makes permanent a discount fare put in
place several years ago.
• Free Rides for children five and under – This change in policy increases the
age at which children must begin to pay a fare from their fifth birthday to their
sixth birthday. This aligns with recent changes at other Los Angeles County
transit providers as they seek to develop a seamless transition from riding free as
young children to riding free on GoPass when they enter kindergarten. The prior
age cutoff created a brief period of required fare payment for certain pre-
kindergarten age children, which caused confusion.
• Metro 1-Day Pass – This Metro fare is recommended for acceptance on BBB.
Tourists are inclined to purchase 1-Day passes for convenience. However, with
Metro offering only Metro 1-Day Pass and no BBB passes at all train stations on
the E-Line, there has been considerable confusion among tourists and other
infrequent BBB users as to why this pass does not work on BBB, even when
purchased at a train station in Santa Monica. Metro’s plan to eliminate their Metro
1-Day pass in the future and replace it with a regional 1-Day pass will resolve this
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dilemma. In the meantime, this proposal recommends acceptance of the Metro 1-
Day pass on BBB as an intermediary solution until such time as the regional 1-
Day pass is introduced. Metro is supportive of this proposed change.
• Metro 1-Day Senior, Disabled & Medicare (SDM) Pass – BBB recommends
acceptance of the SDM version of the 1–Day Metro pass for the same reasons
noted in the above section.
A note on “Refused to Pay” - BBB has had a long-standing policy of allowing
customers who do not pay a fare or who pay a partial fare to ride regardless of fare
payment. A variety of circumstances can result in non-payment of fare including lack of
money, lack of exact or near exact change (only having big bills), damaged or lost fare
cards, confusion, language barrier, cognitive disability, or phone battery not charged
(mobile ticketing). This proposed fare policy does not recommend changes to that
policy. However, during the contactless fare pilot, bilingual signage stating the policy
was added to all buses to ensure the existing policy was widely understood by
customers. As noted above, this did not result in a measurable change in the number of
customers who paid no or partial fare.
Following is the proposed fare table of BBB fare products under this recommendation:
Proposed Fare Table
Ride/Pass Type Regular Senior/ Disabled/
Medicare (SDM)
Youth
Single Ride cash $1.25 $0.50
Single Ride contactless* $1.10 $.50
1-Day $4 $1.50
7-Day $14
10-Ride* $9 $4.50
30-Day $50 $24 $19
Annual $500
* Single Ride and 10-Ride passes include a free BBB to BBB transfer within 2 hours
- Children 5 and under ride free.
- Courtesy rides offered to customers who don’t have appropriate fare.
BBB will continue to participate in regional fare programs and accept regional passes.
The recommendation allows for two additional Metro passes (1-Day and SDM 1-Day
passes) to be accepted as fare on BBB. However, the recommendation does remove
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the Blue to Business pass, which has been replaced by the regional Employer Pass
Program (E-Pass).
Currently, all passes below except the Metro 1-Day Regular and Senior/Disabled pass
are accepted on board BBB. This proposal recommends that the complete list of
regional passes accepted on BBB include:
• Metro 1-Day Pass, Regular and Senior/Disabled
• EZ Pass, Regular and Senior/Disabled
• Interagency Transfers, Regular and Senior/Disabled
• Low-Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) Program
• Access Services Free Fare Program
• Santa Monica College Any Line, Any Time
• Universal College Student Transit Pass (U-Pass)
• UCLA Copay Pass
• GoPass (Fareless System Initiative for participating K-12 and community
colleges)
• Employer Pass Program (E-Pass)
Reducing the types of fare media accepted on board
The original fare proposal presented at the public hearing and through the public survey
contained a provision to eliminate all cash acceptance on board. Eliminating cash
acceptance on board is not recommended for implementation at this time. A transition to
contactless fares would benefit many customers through access to reduced fares not
available with cash fares and overall reduction in travel time on the bus impacting all
customers. Accepting only contactless fares would also benefit both the operational
efficiency and cost efficiency of the transit agency. However, for a contactless fare
system to be effective and convenient, it must cater to the most vulnerable customers,
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including those who depend solely on cash, are unbanked, and/or don’t have a smart
phone. While BBB has made great strides in increasing access to contactless fares and
while smart phone usage has risen precipitously, there is more work to be done before
most unbanked customers can conveniently access BBB pass sales or TAP stored
value loading venues.
This proposal does recommend the elimination of the sale and acceptance of paper
passes. Paper passes create a paper and magnetic stripe waste stream, slow down
boarding when compared with contactless passes, and are operationally less efficient
and more expensive to use than contactless passes. Lastly, paper passes require
customers to touch the farebox, increasing the possibility of exposure to pathogens on a
high touch surface. The public response to the elimination of this type of fare media was
favorable and, as such, elimination of paper passes is recommended under this
proposal. Likewise, tokens will no longer be accepted.
All BBB passes will continue to be available on TAP and mobile ticketing.
Increasing Access to Contactless Fares
As noted above, 94 percent of BBB customers were successfully able to utilize the
contactless fare options. However, closing the gap of the remaining six percent is a
vital piece of BBB’s commitment to providing reliable safe transit for all. Through
insights gleaned from contactless fare pilot and analysis of fare product usage, public
hearing feedback, public surveys, and a Title VI fare equity analysis, staff recommends
additional policy changes to ensure the advantages of contactless fares and access to
contactless fares are made fully available to all customers:
• Maintain an accurate searchable map of TAP sales locations for unbanked
people to use to load passes and stored value.
• Expand access to TAP reload locations, especially for unbanked customers or
those without the ability to reload their TAP card online.
• Develop an in-house program to identify and address the fare needs of
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vulnerable populations (such as seniors, people experiencing homelessness,
veterans, etc.) and dedicate resources to ensuring those populations’ fare needs
are met.
• Pay 3.75% commissions to retailers selling BBB passes on TAP cards to
incentivize retailers to offer BBB products for sale, thereby expanding access to
contactless fares.
• Promote reduced fare options in BBB communications and at the BBB store, and
accept applications where permitted for regional reduced fare options (such as
reduced fare TAP cards for seniors/people with disabilities).
• Be a leader in LA County in participating in regional fare programs, assisting
Metro in working to ensure new programs are successful such as “best fare” or
fare capping options, and offering more regional fare product choices.
• Replace the current one-ride ticket sold to social service agencies with a new
one ride ticket that better meets their needs (no expiration date) and is priced the
same as the single ride.
• Add Wi-Fi on all new buses and configure it to ensure adequate bandwidth for
customers who use mobile ticketing. Currently 15% of the bus fleet has Wi-Fi.
• Continue to explore additional contactless fare technologies, policies, and
options, especially those that address questions of equity and inclusion.
By implementing these policies, staff seeks to achieve increased awareness and
utilization of regional reduced fare programs, as TAP is the only means of accessing
these programs. In a recent customer survey, 86 percent of seniors, 70 percent of
persons with disabilities, and 27 percent of low-income customers were aware of the
reduced fare programs available to them. Staff’s goal is to raise awareness amongst
these cohorts to 90 percent. During the contactless pilot, 85 percent of customers paid
their fare on board with TAP. Prior to the pilot, 36% of customers paid their fare on
board with TAP. This introduction to TAP was a significant achievement in that it has
opened a pathway towards greater utilization of regional reduced fares.
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Summary of Contactless Pilot
The contactless fare pilot was initiated to test whether such a payment system could
make riding BBB safer and faster. Eliminating the need for customers to touch the
farebox (a high touch surface) and speeding up the fare payment process (minimizing
exposure) potentially reduced transmission of Covid-19 and possibly saved lives, but
that is impossible to determine. The pilot did confirm that a contactless fare system
could make riding BBB faster. Staff found that currently, about 15,000 service hours
annually are added to the schedules to accommodate the extra time it takes to pay by
cash or paper pass on board. In a fully contactless payment system, these service
hours would be reallocated in the form of higher service frequency (i.e., reallocation
could add 56 more bus trips daily).
Other accomplishments and lessons learned from the pilot included the significant
adoption of contactless payment options like TAP and mobile tickets. The impact of this
is that many more people now have access to reduced fare programs. Another lesson
learned is that gaps currently exist in the fare distribution network for customers who
need to reload their TAP cards in person. Transitioning to a fully contactless payment
system is a worthy long-term goal but it requires a more thorough fare distribution
network and communication structure. To get there, staff may need to explore
alternative fare collection technology. Staff have begun looking at the gaps and what
can be done with a strong focus on equity, efficiency, and finding a balance that works
for both BBB passengers and the operation. Staff will return to Council in 2023 with an
update on these efforts.
Ridership & Fare Revenue Impacts
In order to grow ridership, it has been well documented in the transit industry that lower
fares attract more customers. More specifically, according to industry research, it has
been documented that for every 1% decrease in fares, ridership is estimated to increase
between 0.25% and 0.4%.
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The projected impacts of the recommended fare policy are an increase of 150,000
customers annually directly attributable to the new fare policy, and a projected reduction
of fare revenue of $431,000 below what would have been expected from the previously
approved fare structure.
Public Surveys, Public Hearing, and Comments
BBB conducted significant public outreach on both the contactless fare pilot and the
proposed fare structure, engaging members of the public through surveys, outreach
events, a public hearing, and acceptance of feedback through the 311 system. A total
of 9,179 public interactions and responses were recorded as part of this project. See
attached Survey documents from March 2021, October 2021, and January/February
2022, and Public Hearing presentation and comments received from February 2022.
Findings of Title VI Fare Equity Analysis
The following is the results of the analysis performed regarding the Title VI civil rights
implications of the proposed changes on low income and minority populations.
• Since most of the proposed changes involved lowering fares, the effect on low-
income populations was beneficial rather than resulting in a disproportionate
burden. No proposed changes exceeded the threshold for negative
disproportionate burden on low-income populations.
• Regarding impact on minority populations, elimination of the 13-Ride pass in its
entirety would have constituted a negative disparate impact on minority
populations. However, the replacement of the 13-Ride Pass with a new 10-Ride
Pass at a lower price per ride mitigates the negative impact of the pass
elimination. With this mitigation in place, there were no proposed changes that
caused a disparate negative impact on minority populations.
Past Council Actions
Meeting Date Description
10/10/2017
(Attachment A)
BBB Fare Restructure
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10/27/2015
(Attachment B)
BBB Fare Restructure
Financial Impacts and Budget Actions
The proposed changes to fares will reduce customer generated revenue
(60600002.409830) by approximately $431,000 in FY 2022-23. The change driving this
reduction in revenue is offering free BBB to BBB transfers within two hours for
contactless fare users. The other proposed changes (e.g. changing the 13-Ride pass to
a 10-Ride pass; updating the policy to provide rides for free to children five and under;
and accepting Metro 1-Day passes) are less impactful. The reduction in revenue will be
offset by one-time federal funding received from the Coronavirus Response and Relief
Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRSSAA). Beyond FY 2022-23, as ridership
increases, the impact of the fare change will decrease. The operating subsidies the
department receives through Metro is projected to increase as the funding allocation is
partly reliant on ridership. The anticipated increase in subsidies is projected to offset
any ongoing impacts.
The benefit of this proposal is lower fares for customers, elimination of expense and
operational procedures involved with paper pass distribution and collection, increased
availability of contactless fares, and the corollary increased access to regional reduced
fare programs.
Prepared By: Timothy McCormick, Transit Planning and Performance Manager
Approved
Forwarded to Council
Attachments:
A. October 10, 2017 Staff Report - Big Blue Bus Fare Restructure (Web Link)
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B. October 27, 2015 Staff Report - BBB Fare Restructure (Web Link)
C. June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot
D. 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021
E. 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021
F. Title VI Fare Equity Analysis - December 2021
G. Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022
H. Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022
I. List of Contactless Fare Pilot Initiatives - FY2021-22
J. Written Comments
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Date: June 24, 2021
To: Mayor and City Council
From: Edward F. King, Director, Department of Transportation
Subject: Contactless Fare Pilot
Introduction
On July 12, 2021, the Department of Transportation, Big Blue Bus (BBB) Division will
begin a six-month pilot of a completely contactless fare payment system. BBB
customers will be able to pay their fare using either the regional TAP fare payment
system or mobile ticketing. Cash, tokens, and paper magnetic fare cards will not be
accepted on board on a pilot basis.
Customers will have a variety of options for obtaining TAP fares, and cash-paying
customers who are unbanked and/or non-smartphone users will be able to replenish
their TAP balances using ticket vending machines available along every BBB route,
at Blue: The Transit Store, or at the nearly 900 retail TAP vendor locations located
across the county. Smartphone users will be able to choose between the TAP app, or
two different BBB-specific mobile ticketing apps (Transit and Token Transit),
depending on their preferences.
Background
Prior to 2015, all BBB customers paid their fare with either cash (coins, bills, and
tokens), or paper magnetic fare cards that were inserted or swiped in the fare box.
These two fare systems have significant downsides for both customers and BBB, and
BBB has sought to promote other fare payment solutions as a result.
Information Item
8.A.c
Packet Pg. 1236 Attachment: June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Cash fare payment is much slower on average than contactless fare payment. For
example, on a trip dedicated exclusively to the cash payment process, forty people
boarding a bus trip with cash fares can add up to 13 additional minutes. These
delays cause slower service that decreases ridership, increases costs, and makes
transit less attractive. Additionally, cash and the farebox are known vectors for
disease transmission for customers, operators, and those assigned to count and
process cash. Finally, farebox maintenance and cash counting incur significant costs
for BBB.
While paper magnetic fare card boardings are faster than cash boardings, and they
eliminate the process of counting cash, customers are still required to touch the
farebox when paying. Paper magnetic fare cards also suffer three additional negative
traits when compared to contactless fare payments: (a) magnetics have a high failure
rate; (b) magnetics are not integrated into TAP (the regional fare system for Los
Angeles County) prohibiting the provision of discount interagency transfers; and (c)
magnetic cards are not account-based so fare media cannot be recovered if the pass
is lost or stolen.
Discussion
Since the adoption of the regional TAP fare system using radio-frequency
identification (RFID) technology in 2015 and mobile ticketing using smartphone apps
in 2017, BBB has encouraged customers to move away from using cash and paper
magnetic fare cards to pay their fares, and instead to use these two new
“contactless” fare payment systems. The advantages of TAP or mobile fare systems
are overall faster travel times, fully contactless payment (no touching of high-touch
surfaces), access to regional interagency discount fares, lower fares, and
convenience. Since the introduction of each system, BBB has worked to continuously
improve the availability, access, and convenience of the fare products.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly half of customers had already migrated from
8.A.c
Packet Pg. 1237 Attachment: June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
cash and paper magnetics to contactless fare payment over the five years since the
introduction of TAP. There was a willingness by many customers to switch due to the
cumbersome burden of having to carry exact change for the bus. To encourage other
customers to try contactless fares, BBB discounted the base fare on TAP to $1.10,
providing a savings of $0.15 from the cash $1.25 base fare. Mobile ticketing was
integrated with real-time bus arrival information via the Transit app, adding to the
convenience. Just prior to the pandemic, fare payment by contactless fare media
(TAP and mobile ticketing) accounted for 47% of all boardings.
As a result of the pandemic, starting on March 20, 2020, fare collection was not
enforced on BBB to slow the spread of COVID-19 and to distance customers from
the operator by having them enter and exit through the back door only. The
pandemic led BBB staff to reexamine strategies for shifting customers more quickly
to contactless fare media. Additionally, a plan was created to pilot the elimination of
cash and paper magnetic fare card usage altogether after the planned resumption of
fare collection. This plan was referenced in the FY2021 budget staff report to Council
on June 23, 2020.
During the period of COVID-19 fare suspension, several measures were taken to
encourage the use of contactless fares when fare collection resumed in February
2021.
• BBB purchased ticket vending machines for two key BBB transit hubs, where the
machines had not previously been made available.
• Staff worked closely with Santa Monica College to shift their pass holders from
paper magnetic fare cards to contactless fares, moving 11% of pre-COVID
ridership to contactless fares in the process.
• The base fare on TAP and mobile ticketing was further reduced from $1.10 to
$1.00, and a new lower Senior/Disabled/Medicare (S/D/M) fare of $0.40 was
introduced on TAP and mobile ticketing (versus $0.50 cash).
8.A.c
Packet Pg. 1238 Attachment: June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
• S/D/M customers were enabled to “self-declare” eligibility for a reduced fare
mobile ticket, rather than having to go to the Transit Store to certify eligibility prior
to obtaining the discount.
• Staff worked with the TAP program to create a new 90-day eligible S/D/M fare
card on TAP so that senior and disabled visitors would continue to enjoy
discounted transit fares, without having to apply for a regional discounted fare
eligibility card from TAP.
• Staff began to issue bilingual Low Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) program
applications at the Transit Store. LIFE, funded by Los Angeles County, provides
free fares to low-income people using contactless fares (TAP).
• Paper magnetic fare product sales were suspended, and systems and policies
were created that allow customers who have unused paper magnetic cards to
exchange them for an equivalent contactless fare.
• Staff created a digital searchable map of all physical locations where customers
can add Stored Value to a TAP card, specifically so that unbanked customers
could easily and conveniently find a place to obtain TAP fares. A bilingual printed
version of this resource is available for added access.
• BBB hired a contactless fare Customer Service Assistant (CSA) to work
specifically on assisting vulnerable and federally protected populations in
adapting to contactless fares. In conjunction, a reservation system was introduced
to facilitate one-on-one customer education appointments with the new CSA in
addition to walk-in appointments.
• A bilingual multi-media outreach campaign communicating how to access
contactless fares and extolling their benefits to passengers was developed and
implemented.
• An outreach consultant has been hired to conduct more than 2,000 hours of
bilingual in-person customer education on board BBB routes and at high-volume
bus stops.
With the reintroduction of fare collection, staff sought to quickly convert as many
customers as possible to contactless fares prior to the beginning of the contactless
8.A.c
Packet Pg. 1239 Attachment: June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
fares pilot on July 12, 2021. In support of this goal, beginning April 19, 2021, BBB
began to distribute a free 30-Day pass to any customer who pledged to use
contactless fares. These passes are available on a free TAP card through the Transit
Store and on mobile ticketing through the Token Transit and Transit mobile app
ticketing platforms. There is a limit of one promotional pass per customer and the
passes are available only through July 22, 2021. There is no cost to participate, and
no one is excluded.
The introduction of this program to distribute free passes is an opportunity to engage
BBB customers in a dialogue regarding the benefits of contactless fares, and to
address any concerns or questions. Cash usage started to decline within the first two
weeks of free pass distribution and continues to decline as of this writing.
The Contactless Fare Pilot
The Contactless Fare Pilot is set to begin on July 12, 2021 and will run for six
months. BBB has created the following goals for the project:
• Convert 85% of customers to contactless fares prior to the start of the pilot.
• Raise awareness of available fare discounts to 90% among seniors, disabled,
youth, and transfer customers.
• Raise participation in the LIFE (Low Income Fare is Easy) to 10% of BBB
customers.
• Trim 15,000 hours of fare payment time from existing schedules annually, which
can then be reinvested in running buses more frequently.
• Increase average bus speed by 1 mile per hour with the elimination of cash fare
payment.
• Save approximately $93,000 annually on cash handling cost reimbursements to
the General Fund.
• Save approximately $274,000 annually in reduced farebox and cash handling
equipment repair costs.
• Receive a favorable rating from more than 90% of passengers during the pilot
regarding contactless fares and their implementation.
8.A.c
Packet Pg. 1240 Attachment: June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Title VI Analysis and Mitigations of Negative Impacts
The proposal to pilot an exclusively contactless fare system was analyzed for Title VI
impacts in April 2021, using data collected in March 2021 by an outside surveyor
(Maroon Society) from 550 BBB customers on board the BBB system. There were no
negative disparate impacts or disproportionate burdens on protected populations as
defined by the Federal Transit Administration. However, it was noted that while the
impacts did not meet the federally prescribed thresholds, the survey provided
additional demographic insights and offered opportunities to further lessen the
challenges of adaptation to contactless fares.
Among the key findings of the survey were the following:
• The BBB system ridership now has a higher incidence of low-income status than
was noted pre-pandemic.
• Prior to March 2020, people 24 years old and younger had made up 27% of
ridership. However, with colleges, universities, and high schools closed, that
percentage had sunk to 10%.
• BBB customers are now living in more concentrated areas of high poverty than in
the past.
• BBB customers are also more likely to live in concentrated areas of recent past
COVID-19 infection.
• Large numbers of both Seniors and Interagency Transfer customers are not
taking advantage of their available fare discounts, due to either unawareness or
confusion about the fare systems.
• A large percentage of contactless fare customers use ticket vending machines at
train stations and bus transit centers to reload their TAP fare cards.
• A majority of customers prefer to purchase single rides rather than a 1-Day, 7-
Day, 30-Day, Annual, or 13 Ride passes.
Equity and Fairness
Using the information gleaned from the survey and the Title VI analysis, BBB is
8.A.c
Packet Pg. 1241 Attachment: June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
working with vulnerable populations to address concerns, remove barriers, and to
create communications and programs that empower all users to embrace contactless
fares.
• All communications regarding the pilot are delivered in English and Spanish
and across a wide variety of platforms.
• With more than 900 TAP vendor/reload locations countywide, phone and
online options, BBB is intent on making contactless fares work for all
customers, especially those who are unbanked.
• The savings in travel time will be of significant benefit to all customers and
allow BBB to offer more service, more efficiently.
• The opportunity to bypass cash and contact with the farebox and the
associated health risks will be a benefit to both customers and staff.
BBB is committed to caring for the most vulnerable through this process and
learning as we go, to ensure a fair and equitable system that benefits everyone.
Timeline (calendar year)
2020
Q4
2021
Q1
2021
Q2
2021
Q3
2021
Q4
$1 Regular & $0.40 S/D/M
contactless fare
Free 30-Day pass to contactless
users
Title VI Evaluation of change to
fares
Pilot period of contactless fares only
Survey of customers regarding pilot
8.A.c
Packet Pg. 1242 Attachment: June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
2020
Q4
2021
Q1
2021
Q2
2021
Q3
2021
Q4
Public hearings
Final recommendation to council
regarding fare structure
Summary
BBB will survey passengers during the contactless fares pilot and will hold public
hearings this fall to gather information on customer experience. In late fall, staff will
return to Council with recommendations for a long-term fare structure and new fare
policy, updates to fare media, and the future of contactless fares.
Prepared By: Tim McCormick, Manager of Planning and Performance
8.A.c
Packet Pg. 1243 Attachment: June 24, 2021 Information Item - Contactless Fares Pilot (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Report: APRIL 2021
CITY OF SANTA MONICA
Title VI Survey:
Customer Readiness for
Contactless Fares
FINAL REPORTT
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1244 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
i
Executive Summary
Over half of BBB customers live in areas with a disproportionately high number of
COVID-19 cases. In the coming months, Big Blue Bus will become the first transit
agency in the United States to implement a 100% contactless fare payment system.
This change promises to minimize interactions between passengers and motor coach
operators, which helps prevent the spread of pathogens like COVID-19. Contactless
fares will improve on-time bus performance, reduce fuel consumption, and eliminate
costs associated with collating and transporting cash fares to banks. This operational
change brings forth the need for a similarly large behavioral change from passengers.
Approximately 57% of Big Blue Bus (BBB) customers will need to transition from cash to
a contactless fare method. Low-Income customers and Hispanic customers may benefit
from targeted outreach that educates them about Metro’s Low-Income Fare is Easy
(LIFE) program, as well as how to initiate and effectively use TAP. This may include an
introduction to available tools, like Metro’s TAP phone number useful to identify
locations to purchase and load fares on TAP cards and check TAP card balance.
To support the transition to contactless fares, BBB should also have a broader
messaging campaign that provides customers information to overcome challenges
some customers experience with TAP: identifying locations to purchase fares, how to
load fares, check balance, and promote confidence that the loaded value will not be
lost if the TAP card is misplaced or stolen.
BBB customers may also benefit from education about discount fares. Twenty percent
(20%) of Seniors are not utilizing the discounted Senior fare, and 40% of customers
making interagency transfers are not receiving the $0.50 fare available with TAP.
It is anticipated that, as college campuses reopen, college students will return to BBB.
To support that transition, BBB may consider working with partner campuses to
highlight the measures taken to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, and improve on-time
performance, which have previously been important factors for student customers
making the choice between bus and ride-share.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1245 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares | Final Report
Table of Contents
Executive Summary ................................................................................................... i
Introduction .............................................................................................................. 1
Methods ................................................................................................................... 1
BBB Routes Represented by Survey ...................................................................................... 2
Results ...................................................................................................................... 3
Section Description ............................................................................................................ 3
Demographic Profile of BBB Customers ............................................................................ 4
Age of BBB Customers .......................................................................................................... 5
Race/Ethnicity of BBB Customers .......................................................................................... 6
Household Size ...................................................................................................................... 6
Household Income ................................................................................................................. 7
Neighborhood of BBB Customers ......................................................................................... 8
Neighborhoods of BBB Customers & Percent living below Poverty ..................................... 9
Neighborhood of BBB Customers & COVID-19 Cases ....................................................... 10
Ridership and Payment Methods ..................................................................................... 11
Frequency of Riding BBB ..................................................................................................... 12
Frequency of Riding by Continuous vs. New BBB Customers ............................................. 12
Fare Media Pre-COVID-19 ................................................................................................... 13
Fare Media Post-Covid-19 ................................................................................................... 14
Location to Purchase Fare Products .................................................................................... 15
Discount Fare Payers vs. Self Reported Discount Eligible ................................................... 15
Fares Category ..................................................................................................................... 16
Interagency Transfers – Frequency & Fare Type ................................................................. 17
Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares ...................................................................... 18
Cash Use .............................................................................................................................. 19
Smartphone and Credit Card Access by Income ................................................................. 20
Smartphone and Credit Card Access by Race/Ethnicity ...................................................... 21
Conclusion .............................................................................................................. 22
Appendix ................................................................................................................ 23
BBB - Fare Use Survey ......................................................................................................... 24
Title VI – Low-Income Definition .......................................................................................... 29
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1246 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares | Final Report
List of Figures
Figure 1: BBB Riders by Age ............................................................................................. 5
Figure 2: Race/Ethnicity of BBB Riders .............................................................................. 6
Figure 3: Number of People in Household ....................................................................... 6
Figure 4: Household Income (N=382) ............................................................................... 7
Figure 5: Map of BBB Customers by Home Zip Code ...................................................... 8
Figure 6: Map of BBB Customer’s by Home Zip Code ..................................................... 9
Figure 7: Map of BBB Customer Zip Codes by Poverty .................................................... 9
Figure 8: Map of BBB Riders by Zip Code ...................................................................... 10
Figure 9: COVID-19 Cases in Los Angeles County - April 2021 ..................................... 10
Figure 10: Frequency of BBB Ridership .......................................................................... 12
Figure 11: Frequency of BBB Ridership by Continuous & New Customers .................... 12
Figure 12: Fare Media & Categories – Pre-COVID-19: All vs. Continuous Customers ... 13
Figure 13: Payment Type by All, Continuous Customers & New Customers .................. 14
Figure 14: Purchase Location .......................................................................................... 15
Figure 15: Discount Fare Payers vs. Self Reported Discount Eligible ............................. 15
Figure 16: Fare Category by Total, Regular and Discount Fare Payers .......................... 16
Figure 17: Frequency of Interagency Transfers ............................................................... 17
Figure 18: Fare Media by Interagency Transfers Customers ........................................... 17
Figure 19: Cash Fare – Income Status, Race & Ethnicity ................................................. 19
Figure 20: Smartphone and Credit Card Access - Higher vs. Lower Income .................. 20
Figure 21: Smartphone and Credit Card Access – Race/Ethnicity .................................. 21
List of Tables
Table 1: Surveys Completed by Route and Routes Boarded per Week ........................... 2
Table 2: Low-Income Qualified: People in Home by Household Income ......................... 7
Table 3: Top 10 Home Zip Codes for BBB Customers ..................................................... 8
Table 4: Customers with Smartphones and Credit Cards ............................................... 18
Table 5: Title VI - Low-Income Qualification ................................................................... 29
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1247 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Contactless Fares Survey | Introduction & Methods
1
Introduction
Big Blue Bus is making the transition to a 100% contactless fare payment system. The
purpose of this shift is to save on operations costs, improve on-time performance, and
increase the safety of passengers and motor coach operators from possible exposure
to pathogens like COVID-19. In connection with this significant operational
enhancement, BBB would like to know how passengers currently pay their fares, and
what tools, like smartphones and credit cards, customers have available to make the
transition to contactless fare payments. To answer these questions, Big Blue Bus
commissioned Maroon Society to conduct customer surveys, and develop the
following report on customer readiness for the transition to contactless fares.
Methods
We conducted 550 intercept surveys with BBB customers at high volume bus stops.1
Table 1 on page 2 displays surveys conducted per BBB route. Surveys were
administered to collect a representative sample of customer feedback from all 16 BBB
routes by day type and time of day. This included conducting surveys between 6:00
AM and 6:00 PM over a 12-day period, March 19 to March 30, 2021. Surveyors wore
personal protective gear and approached BBB customers using hand-held digital
tablets to complete the survey. All surveyors were English-Spanish bilingual, and
completed surveys in the preferred language of the customer. Customers were offered
a $15.00 gift certificate for their participation. The gift certificates are cash value
equivalent administered by the Award of Choice program, which allows customers to
select from hundreds of vendors to spend the money.
1 Note: 12 surveys were conducted either over the phone or online.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1248 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Contactless Fares Survey | Introduction & Methods
2
BBB Routes Represented by Survey
The following table lists surveys completed by route, and the variety of routes boarded
by passengers each week. For example, a customer who conducted a survey prior to
boarding the 1-Santa Monica may have listed a variety of other routes s/he rides each
week. Those additional routes are collated in the column “Routes/Week.”
Table 1: Surveys Completed by Route and Routes Boarded per Week
BBB Route Route2 Routes/Week
1 - Santa Monica 105 204
2 - Wilshire 12 59
3 - Lincoln 115 212
5 - Olympic 11
7 - Pico 119 203
7 - Rapid Pico 26 75
8 - Ocean Park 9 31
9 - Pacific Palisades 113 143
10 - Rapid Downtown LA 1 6
12 - Westwood/UCLA 3 18
14 - Bundy 3 30
15 - Barrington 2
17 - UCLA - VA Medical 4 18
18 - UCLA - Abbot Kinney 28 63
41 - 17th St. - SMC 5
43 - 26th St/San Vicente 6
Total 538 1,086
2 In-person surveys totaled 538 and an additional 12 surveys were conducted by phone or Internet.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1249 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Contactless Fares Survey | Results
3
Results
Section Description
This section offers summary findings from the survey in three sections:
1. Demographic Profile of BBB Customers
2. Ridership and Payment Methods
3. Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1250 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
4
Demographic Profile of
BBB Customers
BBB customers are linguistically diverse, range in age from youth to
seniors, and live in different areas of Los Angeles County:
LANGUAGE – Forty-one percent (41.5%) of customers
surveyed preferred to conduct the survey in Spanish. Fifty-
eight percent (58.5%) conducted an English language survey.3
GENDER – The majority of BBB customers surveyed are
female (62.4%), 37.5% are male, and 0.4% non-binary.
AGE – The age of BBB customers skews older as a result of
the loss of most college pass holders aged 18-24 years old.
RACE/ETHNICITY – Hispanic/LatinX are the largest ethnic
group (60%) of BBB customers.
HOUSEHOLD INCOME – Nearly half (48.6%) of BBB customers
live in households with one to two people, and 78% of have
an annual household income less than $40,000.
TITLE VI – 84% of BBB customers qualify as racial minorities,
and 86.6%% qualify as Low-Income.
COVID-19 – It is estimated over half of BBB customers live in
communities with a disproportionately high number of
COVID-19 cases based on the poverty-COVID-19 nexus.
3 “Language” is based on the language in which the survey was completed. The default language was
English. Surveys were conducted in Spanish when customers indicated a desire to participate in Spanish.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1251 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
5
Age of BBB Customers
In May 2017, 27% of Big Blue Bus customers were aged 18-24 years old. A year after
the onset of COVID-19, only 9% of BBB customers are 18-24 years old. This 67% drop
in 18-24 year olds can be explained by the closure of college campuses in response to
the pandemic. One month prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 23% of customers paid
their fare with a college pass. As of April 2021, none of the BBB customers surveyed
used college passes.4 The loss of 18-24 year olds has resulted in a customer base that
skews older. In the months ahead, as college campuses reopen, it is anticipated the
age distribution of customers will normalize with the return of student pass customers.
Figure 1: BBB Riders by Age
(N=550)
4 This result is consistent with actual fare product use, which verifies only 3% of customers use college
passes. This within the 5% margin of error of the survey results.
2%
27%
20%
15% 14%
9%
12%
1%
9%
19% 19%
21%
16% 15%
16-17 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-61 62+
May 2017 March 2021
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1252 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
6
Race/Ethnicity of BBB Customers
The majority of BBB customers (60%) identify as Hispanic/LatinX. Among these
customers, 69% conducted the survey in Spanish (N=227) and, 1/3 spoke “Little to No
English.” Eighty-four percent of BBB customers surveyed qualify as racial minorities
under Title VI. Figure 2 shows the race/ethnicity of BBB customers.
Figure 2: Race/Ethnicity of BBB Riders
(N=550)
Household Size
Nearly 1/3 of BBB customers live in a house with four or more people (31%). Figure 4
illustrates the number of people in the household.
Figure 3: Number of People in Household
(N=550)
2%
5%
17%
20%
60%
Native American
Asian
Black
White
Hispanic
26%
22% 20% 17%
14%
One Two Three Four Five or More
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1253 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
7
Household Income
Ninety-three percent (93%) of BBB customers live in a household below the median
household income ($68,093) of Los Angeles County. Eighty-six percent (86.6%) qualify
as Low-Income under Title VI (See definition in Appendix, Table 5 page 29). Table 2
shows the number of people in BBB customer households and the corresponding
household income. Shaded cells qualify as “Low-Income” households.5
Figure 4: Household Income
(N=382)
Table 2: Low-Income Qualified: People in Home by Household Income
People
in
Home
Household Income – Number of BBB Customers/Income Category
Total
Less than
$20,000
$20,000-
$39,999
$40,000-
$59,999
$60,000-
$79,999
$80,000-
$99,999
$100,000
or More
1 62 22 12 4 2 1 103
2 25 36 12 4 2 3 82
3 23 36 11 6 0 0 76
4 27 22 15 1 0 0 65
5 14 18 4 4 0 0 40
6 3 6 1 0 0 0 10
7 2 2 1 0 0 0 5
10 0 0 0 1 0 0 1
Low-
Income 156 142 32 1 0 0 331
% 40.8% 37.2% 8.4% 0.3% 0.0% 0.0% 86.6%
Total 156 142 56 20 4 4 382
5 Note, 165 (30.2%) of BBB customers declined to answer the household income question.
2%
5%
15%
37%
41%
$80,000-or More
$60,000-$79,999
$40,000-$59,999
$20,000-$39,999
Less than $20,000
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1254 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
8
Neighborhood of BBB Customers
BBB customers travel from various regions of the County, often corresponding with
Metro’s Blue line, Expo, and Gold line rail. Figure 5 illustrates the zip codes where BBB
customers live. Darker shaded areas represent larger concentrations of riders. Table 3
lists the Zip codes with the greatest concentration of customers.
Figure 5: Map of BBB Customers by Home Zip Code
Table 3: Top 10 Home Zip Codes for BBB Customers
Rank Neighborhood Zip Code Frequency (N) Percent (%)
1 Santa Monica 90405 48 8.7%
2 South Central LA 90011 32 5.8%
3 Santa Monica 90401 28 5.1%
4 Mid Wilshire 90019 24 4.4%
5 Santa Monica 90404 23 4.2%
6 South LA 90003 21 3.8%
7 Pico Union 90006 20 3.6%
8 West Adams 90016 18 3.3%
9 Venice 90291 16 2.9%
10 Westwood 90025 15 2.7%
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1255 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
9
Neighborhoods of BBB Customers & Percent living below Poverty
Over half (51.5%) of BBB customers live in communities with medium to high rates of
poverty.6 Figure 7 shows concentration of poverty across LA County and Figure 6
shows the proportion of BBB customers living in each zip code.
6 LA County has a poverty rate of 13.4%. Low poverty is defined as communities with 0%-14% living below
the poverty line, medium is 14.1%-23.99%, and high poverty is 25%-50%.
Figure 6: Map of BBB Customer’s by Home Zip Code
Figure 7: Map of BBB Customer Zip Codes by Poverty
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1256 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
10
Neighborhood of BBB Customers & COVID-19 Cases
COVID-19 cases are more abundant in areas with higher poverty. Given that over half
of customers reside in communities with greater rates of poverty, these customers
experience a higher risk for acquiring and transmitting COVID-19. Figure 9 shows the
distribution of COVID-19 cases across LA County as of April 23, 2021.
Figure 8: Map of BBB Riders by Zip Code
Figure 9: COVID-19 Cases in Los Angeles County - April 2021
Map generated by the LA County COVID-19 Surveillance Dashboard 4/22/2021
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1257 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
11
Ridership and Payment
Methods
This section details how customers travel on BBB, pre COVID-19 pandemic
and currently. This includes frequency of use and payment methods.
FREQUENCY USE – Fifty percent (50%) of customers ride BBB
at least 4 days per week; and, 79% started riding BBB prior to
the COVID-19 pandemic.
PAYMENT TYPE – Fifty-seven percent (56.9%) pay their fare
with cash. This increase in cash use is driven primarily by the
loss of college student pass users and the introduction of new
customers, among whom 74% pay with cash.
OPPORTUNITY – Seniors and Interagency Transfer customers
are not taking full advantage of the discounts available to
them. BBB has an opportunity to increase the proportion of
customers benefiting from available discount fares via
targeted messaging to educate customers how to apply for
relevant discounts and use TAP for Interagency transfers.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1258 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
12
Frequency of Riding BBB
Fifty percent (50%) of customers ride BBB 4 or more days each week. Among these
high frequency riders, 89.7% started riding before the COVID-19 Pandemic. Overall,
21% of all BBB customers started riding after the pandemic.
Figure 10: Frequency of BBB Ridership
(N=550)
Frequency of Riding by Continuous vs. New BBB Customers
New customers ride BBB less frequently than Continuous Customers (i.e., those who
rode BBB before COVID-19 and continue riding BBB) - 76.9% ride less than 1
day/week to 3 days/week versus 43.5% of Continuous Customers.
Figure 11: Frequency of BBB Ridership by Continuous & New Customers
(N=550)
15%
36%
29%
21%
Less than 1 day/week 1 to 3 days 4 to 5 days 6 days or more
10%
33% 33%
24%
32%
44%
13% 11%
Less than 1 day/week 1 to 3 days 4 to 5 days 6 days or more
Continuous New
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1259 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
13
Fare Media Pre-COVID-19
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, cash, as a fare media, comprised 32.8% of all fares.
With the onset of COVID-19, BBB witnessed an exodus of college pass holders.
Among Continuous Customers, 50.7% (n=220) paid their fare with cash before the
pandemic. Figure 12 shows the distribution of fares by All vs. Continuous customers
before the pandemic. As can be seen, Continuous customers were much more likely to
pay their fare with cash Pre-COVID-19 compared to the average BBB customer; and,
most (184/220) of these cash paying customers continue to pay their fare with cash.
UCLA and SMC passes are almost non-existent among Continuous customers.
Figure 12: Fare Media & Categories – Pre-COVID-19: All vs. Continuous Customers
0.5%
0.5%
0.5%
1.4%
1.6%
6.9%
38.0%
50.7%
12.2%
6.3%
1.5%
14.3%
1.3%
5.1%
44.8%
32.8%
SMC Pass
UCLA Pass
Smartphone App
BBB Paper Pass
7-Day BBB Paper Pass
Access TAP Card
TAP Card
Cash on Bus
All
(Farebox Count,
Pre-COVID-19)
Continuous
(Survey Count,
N=434)
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1260 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
14
Fare Media Post-Covid-19
Cash is the most frequently used fare type among customers.7 The increase of cash
fares Pre-to-Post COVID-19 outbreak resulted from the loss of college pass customers
and the addition of new customers who primarily use cash (74.1%) to pay their fare.8
Figure 13: Payment Type by All, Continuous Customers & New Customers
7 The survey results are consistent with the fare categories obtained from fare box data in April 2021.
8 New customers are those who started riding BBB after March 20, 2020 – onset of COVID-19 pandemic.
0.0%
1.7%
24.1%
74.1%
1.8%
6.9%
38.9%
52.3%
1.5%
5.8%
35.8%
56.9%
Smartphone App
Access
TAP
Cash
All - Surveyed
(N=550)
Continuous Customers
(N=434)
New Customers
(N=116)
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1261 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
15
Location to Purchase Fare Products
Most non-cash paying customers purchase fare products at Ticket Vending Machines
(41%). Thirty percent receive their fare products from Access or a Social Services
Agency (91% Access TAP, 9% TAP); and, 14% purchase fares at the BBB Transit store.
Figure 14: Purchase Location
(N=237)9
Discount Fare Payers vs. Self Reported Discount Eligible
Twenty-one percent of BBB customers (N=117) report paying their fare with a discount.
However, slightly more (25%; N=137) report being eligible for a discount. Eighty
percent (80.5%) of Seniors (62 years +; N=83) pay with one of the discount categories
listed in Figure 15, while an additional 20.5% of eligible seniors report paying full price.
Figure 15 compares BBB customers who self-report eligibility for a discount and those
who report paying with discount (Actual).
9 The percent of usage was imputed based on reports from 116 participants. This resulted from a lack of
responses from other respondents who otherwise could, but did not, respond to this question.
41%
30%
14% 9% 6% 5% 3%
Ticket
Vending
Machine
Access or
Social
Service
Agency
BBB Transit
Store
TAP Website
or Call
Center
TAP app Smartphone
app
TAP retail
location
Figure 15: Discount Fare Payers vs. Self Reported Discount Eligible
(N=137)
62%
19%
2% 0%
83.9%
24.8%
2.9% 0.7%
Senior Disability Medicare Youth
Actual Self-Reported Eligible
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1262 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
16
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.9%
0.0%
19.7%
4.3%
23.1%
15.4%
15.4%
46.2%
0.2%
0.2%
0.2%
0.5%
0.7%
1.6%
1.6%
7.2%
2.1%
7.2%
4.4%
7.2%
13.9%
59.8%
0.2%
0.2%
0.2%
0.4%
0.5%
1.3%
1.5%
5.6%
5.8%
6.5%
8.4%
8.9%
14.2%
56.9%
TAP U-Pass
TAP Interagency Transfer
BBB Annual Pass
TAP E-Pass
Youth 30-Day Pass
UCLA Pass
13-Rides Pass
7-Day Pass
Access TAP Card
Day Pass
EZ Pass
30-Day Pass
TAP - Single Ride
Cash - Single Ride
Total
(N=550)
Regular
(N=433)
Discount
(N=117)
Fares Category
Prior to COVID-19, cash use was at 32.8%. After the COVID-19 Pandemic, college
pass use nearly vanished. As a result, cash is now the most frequently used fare media.
Figure 16 compares fare categories by total, discount, and regular fare payers.
Figure 16: Fare Category by Total, Regular and Discount Fare Payers
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1263 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
17
Interagency Transfers – Frequency & Fare Type
Fifty one percent (51%) of customers transfer between BBB and other agencies. One-
third (33.6%) transfer Rarely or Sometimes, and 16.9% transfer Usually or Always.
Twenty-two percent (21.9%, 61/278) making interagency transfers report receiving the
discounted fare with TAP.10 However, the proportion of customers making interagency
transfers who receive a discount is likely 62% (61+111/278). As Figure 18 highlights,
among customers who report “not” receiving an interagency discount, a combined
51% (n=111) use TAP or Access to pay their fare on BBB; and, each of these fare
categories automatically provide the discounted $0.50 transfer fare.
Figure 17: Frequency of Interagency Transfers
(N=550)
Figure 18: Fare Media by Interagency Transfers Customers who Report Not
Receiving the Discount Fare
(N=217)
10 This is consistent with those who transfer “Usually or Always,” among whom 17% report receiving a
discount.
49%
15% 19%
9% 8%
Never Rarely Sometimes Usually Always
2.3%
8.3%
42.9%
46.5%
Smartphone App
Access
TAP
Cash
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1264 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares
18
Customer Readiness for
Contactless Fares
Over half of BBB customers (56.9%) pay their fare with cash. During the
next few months, BBB will support customers as they transition from cash to
the most convenient fare media for them. This includes a thoughtful
examination of how the shift toward contactless fare payments may impact
groups protected by Title VI – Low-Income and racial minority customers.
This section details customer readiness for transitioning to contactless fares.
“Readiness” is explored by examining customers who currently pay their
fare with cash, identifying those who have access to smartphones with
Internet access and credit cards, and those who do not. Table 4 shows
customers with a smartphone by customers with credit cards. An estimated
37% of customers fall into the groups with possibly greater support needs
(i.e., those who have a phone but no credit card, a credit card but no phone,
or neither a phone nor credit card).
Low-Income customers and Hispanic customers may need more support
making the transition from cash to contactless fares.
Table 4: Customers with Smartphones and Credit Cards
Have Credit Card
Yes No Total
Have Smartphone
with Data or WiFi Yes 63% 22% 85%
348 119 467
No 4% 11% 15%
23 60 83
Total 371 179 550
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1265 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares
19
Cash Use
Cash is most heavily used by two communities protected by Title VI: Low-Income
customers and Hispanic/LatinX customers. Over half (55.5%) of Low-Income customers
use cash to pay their fare, compared to 41.2% of higher income customers.
Additionally, 62.5% of Hispanic customers use cash to pay their fare. Each of these
results are statistically significant. Black and Asian customers use cash slightly more
than their White counterparts; however, the differences are no statistically significant.
Native American customers use cash less than all other groups. BBB can help Low-
Income customers and Hispanic customers transition to contactless fares by
introducing them to the Low-Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) program. This may include
working with an agency that conducts customer outreach, and possibly support
customers to navigate the LIFE application. In addition, Low-Income and Hispanic
customers may benefit from an introduction to available tools, like Metro’s TAP phone
number, they can use to identify locations to purchase and load fares on TAP cards.
This outreach requires bilingual content and navigation support to be most effective.
Figure 19: Cash Fare – Income Status, Race & Ethnicity
(N=381)
41.2%
55.5%
48.1%
62.5%
56.2% 53.6%
0.0%
High Low Income White Hispanic Black Asian Native
Indicates difference is statistically significant.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1266 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares
20
Smartphone and Credit Card Access by Income
The majority of customers (88.5%) have smartphones. Eighty-four percent have
a smartphone with a data plan; and, an additional 0.9%, who do not have a
data plan, report using WiFi on their phone to access the Internet. Among all
customers, 67.5% have a credit card, check card or pre-paid visa card. There is
an unmistakable digital divide in both smartphone Internet access and digital
payment methods by customer income levels. Lower-Income customers are
less likely than Higher-Income customers to posses both a smartphone with
Internet access and a credit card. Customers with Low-Income are also more
likely than customers with Higher-Income to have an Internet accessible
smartphone without a credit card, or have neither a credit card or Internet
accessible smartphone.
Figure 20: Smartphone and Credit Card Access - Higher vs. Lower Income
(N=550)
82.4%
15.7%
2.0% 0.0%
54.8%
30.3%
3.3%
11.5%
Phone & Card Phone & No Card Card & No Phone No Card & No Phone
High-Income Low-Income
Indicates difference is statistically significant.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1267 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares
21
Smartphone and Credit Card Access by Race/Ethnicity
Asian customers are much more likely than all other race/ethnic groups to have
a smartphone with Internet access and a credit card. Differences between
other racial groups, related to possessing phones and credit cards are not
statistically significant. This means no racial group is more or less likely to have
the combined access gap to phones and credit cards, which might necessitate
a mitigation strategy. Instead, all race/ethnic groups have relatively equal
access to credit cards and phones, except for Asian customers who have
greater access than all other groups.
Figure 21: Smartphone and Credit Card Access – Race/Ethnicity
(N=550)
66%
21%
6% 7%
62%
24%
3%
11%
59%
21%
4%
16%
89%
4% 7%
0%
54%
15% 15% 15%
Phone & Card Phone & No Card Card & No Phone No Card & No Phone
White Hispanic Black Asian Native
Indicates difference is statistically significant.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1268 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Conclusion
22
Conclusion
In the months to come, Big Blue Bus will transition to a 100% contactless fare payment
system to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases,
improve on-time performance, and improve motor coach operator and customer
safety. Over half of BBB customers will need to adopt a contactless fare media.
Customers who have smartphones with a data plan and a credit card can transition by
adopting an electronic payment method, if they are not already using one. Customers
who have an Internet accessible smartphone but no credit card, a credit card but no
smartphone, or neither credit card nor smartphone can initiate TAP. Our analysis
demonstrated no statistically significant differences when it comes to the combination
of smartphone and credit card access and fare media used. This suggests that with
clear and targeted messaging, all customer segments, regardless of phone and credit
card access, can successfully transition to contactless fare payments.
Low-Income customers and Hispanic/LatinX customers may benefit from a strategy
unique to each group. Low-income customers lack access to both smartphone based
Internet and credit cards. Low-Income customers and LatinX customers are also most
likely to pay with cash. There is a nexus between these two groups – 69% of Low-
Income customers are Hispanic (228/330) and 93% of Hispanics are Low-Income
(228/244). These groups should be encouraged to adopt TAP cards, and apply for the
LIFE program. This will likely require a bilingual English/Spanish campaign that
provides in-person education. The in-person outreach is critical, especially for Spanish
speaking Latinos. Many of these customers experience a digital divide related to
Internet access, webpage navigation, and comprehension given the ubiquity of English
language websites and resources in comparison to the often difficult to locate and
comprehend Spanish language options. Messaging targeted at Low-income and
Hispanic customers should highlight the benefits and security of TAP, the ability to
check on fare balances, and the variety of community retail locations to load fares.
BBB may also consider informing customers about their eligibility for discounts.
Approximately 20% of Seniors who are eligible for a discount do not take advantage of
it. Additionally, approximately 40% of customers who make interagency transfers do
not use TAP to receive the discounted fare. An outreach campaign with customer-
specific education about contactless fare payment options and discounts will promote
the Big Blue Bus brand as a transportation leader that fulfills its commitment to serve
the needs of all its customers, especially in critical times of transition.
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1269 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Appendix
23
Appendix
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1270 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
24
BBB - Fare Use Survey
1. Enter Survey Invitation Code____________
2. Are you at least 14 years old?
a. Yes
b. No ! TERMINATE SURVEY
3. How many days a week do you ride on BBB buses?
a. Don’t ride BBB ! TERMINATE SURVEY
b. Less than 1 day/week
c. 1 to 3 days
d. 4 to 5 days
e. 6 days or more
4. BBB route(s) you ride on a weekly basis
(SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
a. 1 Santa Monica Blvd.
b. 2 Wilshire Blvd.
c. 3 Lincoln Blvd.
d. 5 Olympic Blvd.
e. 7 Pico Blvd.
f. 7 Rapid Pico Blvd.
g. 8 Ocean Park
h. 9 Pacific Palisades
i. 10 Rapid Downtown LA
j. 12 Westwood/UCLA/Culver City
k. 14 Bundy Dr.
l. 15 Barrington Ave.
m. 17 UCLA - VA Medical – Palms
n. 18 UCLA - Abbot Kinney
o. 41 - 17th St. - SMC – Montana
p. 43 - 26th St. & San Vicente Blvd.
5. Did you ride BBB before the COVID-19 pandemic?
a. Yes, started riding before March 20th, 2020.
b. No, started riding after March 20th, 2020. ! SKIP TO Q.8
6. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, How did you USUALLY pay for your BBB fare?
a. Cash on the bus
b. BBB Paper Pass (magnetic)
c. TAP card
d. Access TAP card
e. 7-Day BBB Paper Pass
f. Santa Monica College Pass
g. UCLA Pass
h. Smartphone app (Transit app, Token Transit app)
i. BBB employee/retiree/dependent pas
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1271 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
25
IF “PAPER DAY PASS” OR “PAPER 7-DAY PASS” IS SELECTED, CONTINUE TO
Q.7, OTHERWISE SKIP TO Q.8
7. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Where did you usually purchase your Paper
Pass?
a. On the bus
b. BBB Transit Store
c. Santa Monica public library
8. How do you usually pay for your BBB fare now?
a. Cash on the bus ! SKIP TO Q.11
b. TAP card
c. Smartphone app (Tap, Transit app, Token Transit app)
d. Access TAP card
e. BBB employee/retiree/dependent pass
f. Paper pass that I had left over.
ANSWER Q.9 IF “C.” SELECTED ABOVE, OTHERWISE SKIP TO Q.10 .
9. Which Smartphone App do you usually use to pay your BBB fare?
a. TAP app
b. Transit app
c. Token Transit App
d. Other
IF CASH SELECTED AT Q.8, SKIP TO Q11.
10. Where do you typically get your BBB fare products (tickets/passes)?
( Select All That Apply)
a. A ticket vending machine (TAP Stored Value)
b. TAP website
c. TAP call center
d. TAP retail location (Ralph’s, 7-Eleven, etc.)
e. TAP app
f. BBB Transit Store
g. Smartphone app (Token Transit app, Transit app)
h. Pass is provided by Employer or School
i. Pass is provided by Access or Social Service Agency
11. Do you usually pay your fare with a Senior, Disabled or Medicare discount?
a. Yes
b. No ! SKIP TO Q. 13
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1272 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
26
IF CASH SELECTED AT Q.8, SKIP TO Q14.
12. Which fare(s) do you normally choose now? (choose one or two)
a. TAP (Value) Single Ride
b. Day Pass
c. 13-Rides Pass
d. 30-Day Pass
e. EZ Pass
ANSWER Q.13 ONLY IF “NO” SELECTED AT Q.11, OTHERWISE SKIP TO Q.14.
13. Which fare(s) do you normally choose now? (choose one or two)?
(choose one or two)
a. TAP (Value) Single Ride
b. Day Pass
c. 7-Day Pass
d. 13-Rides Pass
e. 30-Day Pass
f. EZ Pass
g. Youth 30-Day Pass
h. BBB Annual Pass
i. Blue to Business Pass
j. Access TAP Card
k. TAP Interagency Transfer
l. UCLA Pass
m. SMC Pass
n. TAP U-Pass
o. TAP E-Pass
14. Thinking about 1-way trips on the Big Blue Bus, how often do you transfer to or
from Big Blue Bus from or to another bus or rail provider?
a. Never !SKIP TO Q.16
b. Rarely
c. Sometimes
d. Usually
e. Always
15. When you transfer to other transit providers (not BBB), do you use TAP Stored
Value to purchase the discounted $0.50 Interagency Transfer?
a. Yes
b. No
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1273 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
27
16. Do you have a smartphone?
a. Yes
b. No ! SKIP TO Q.19
17. Does your phone have a data plan to access the internet?
a. Yes ! SKIP TO Q.19
b. No
18. Do you access the Internet on your phone using Wi-Fi?
a. Yes
b. No
19. Do you have a credit card, bank debit card, or pre-paid card to make purchases?
a. Yes
b. No
20. Are you eligible for reduced bus fares under any of the categories below?
(Select all that apply)
a. Senior
b. Disabled
c. Medicare recipient
d. Youth (5 to 18 years of age)
e. No – Not Eligible for discounts
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1274 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
28
DEMOGRAPHICS
21. What is your gender?
a. Female
b. Male
c. Non-binary
22. In which age category do you belong?
a. 16-17 years
b. 18-24
c. 25-34
d. 35-44
e. 45-54
f. 55-61
g. 62 and Older
23. Select the group(s) that best describe you.
(Select all that apply)
a. Hispanic/Latino/Latinx
b. White
c. Black/African American
d. Asian/Pacific Islander
e. Native American
f. Other: ____________________
24. How many people currently live in your home (including you)? _____________
25. Thinking about all the people who earn money in your home – If their annual
incomes were combined, approximately how much money is earned per year
(i.e., annual household income)?
a. Less than $20,000
b. $20,000 – $39,999
c. $40,000 – $59,999
d. $60,000 – $79,999
e. $80,000 – $99,999
f. More than $100,000
26. How proficient are you in English?
a. I speak little to no English
b. I speak some English
c. I speak English very well
27. What is your home zip code? __________________
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1275 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
29
Title VI – Low-Income Definition
BBB uses Metro’s LIFE program to qualify customer’s as low-income based on
household size and annual income, as shown in Table 5.
Table 5: Title VI - Low-Income Qualification
Household Size Annual Income
1 $39,450 or less
2 $45,050 or less
3 $50,700 or less
4 $56,300 or less
5 $60,850 or less
6 $65,350 or less
8.A.d
Packet Pg. 1276 Attachment: 1st On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - April 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Report: OCTOBER 2021
CITY OF SANTA MONICA
Contactless Pilot Survey:
Customer Response to
Contactless Fares
DRAFT REPORTT
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1277 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
i
Executive Summary
In July, Big Blue Bus became the first transit agency in the United States to implement a
100% contactless fare payment system. This change minimizes interactions between
passengers and motor coach operators to help prevent the spread of pathogens like
COVID-19. It also improves on-time bus performance, and eliminates costs associated
with collating and transporting cash fares to banks and repairing fare-boxes.
Between March and September at least 57% of Big Blue Bus (BBB) customers were
asked to shift from cash to a contactless payment method. The majority of these
customers adopted TAP cards to pay their fare, which coincides with the jump in TAP
card usage from 36% to 73% between March and September. Overall, 79% of
customers expressed a neutral response to the pilot; 7% expressed a positive impact;
and, 14% had negative opinions of the contactless pilot. The majority of positive and
negative comments came from customers who previously paid with cash. Positive
comments revolved around speed, safety, and convenience; negative comments
mentioned inconvenience seeking places to load fares, and confusion and concern
about TAP card technology failing. This may explain why 73% of customers were
interested in an option to load fares on a smartphone at the transit store.
Survey results showed BBB customers eligible for discounts for Interagency transfer,
Seniors, and Youth have high levels of awareness (81%-86%); and 70% percent of
disability eligible customers are aware of disability-based discounts. The discount area
with the greatest opportunity to increase awareness is among LIFE eligible customers.
Currently, 27% of eligible customers are aware of LIFE, and 9% are receiving LIFE
benefits. Ten percent of Seniors who previously received the $.50 senior fare discount
did not transition to receive a senior discount on TAP. This may be explained by
Seniors reluctant to provide personal information to register for the discount.
BBB may consider targeting LIFE eligible customers for outreach and education at TAP
vending machines and TAP retail, given that 68% of LIFE eligible customers purchase
fares at these locations. There is an opportunity to address some of the resistance
Seniors experience in the discount application process to increase discount utilization.
Interagency discount awareness could be improved; however, it will be difficult to get
an accurate picture of these customer’s needs until Metro resumes fare collection. BBB
might consider testing marketing communication with focus groups to identify
messages and communication modes that will resonate with target customers.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1278 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares | Final Report
Table of Contents
Executive Summary ................................................................................................... i
Introduction .............................................................................................................. 1
Methods ................................................................................................................... 1
BBB Routes Represented by Survey ...................................................................................... 2
Results ...................................................................................................................... 3
Section Description ............................................................................................................ 3
Demographic Profile of BBB Customers ............................................................................ 4
Age of BBB Customers .......................................................................................................... 5
Race/Ethnicity of BBB Customers .......................................................................................... 6
Household Size ...................................................................................................................... 6
Household Income ................................................................................................................. 7
Life Eligibility .......................................................................................................................... 7
Neighborhood of BBB Customers ......................................................................................... 8
Ridership and Payment Methods ....................................................................................... 9
Frequency of Riding BBB ..................................................................................................... 10
Number of BBB Routes Used Weekly .................................................................................. 10
Fare Media ........................................................................................................................... 11
Location to Purchase Fare Products .................................................................................... 12
Fares Category ..................................................................................................................... 13
Transfers ............................................................................................................................... 14
Discount Fare Awareness and Use .................................................................................. 15
TAP Discount Awareness ..................................................................................................... 16
Discount Fare Awareness ..................................................................................................... 17
Senior Discount Usage ......................................................................................................... 18
LIFE Eligibility and Use ........................................................................................................ 18
Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot .............................................................. 19
Contactless Fare Implementation ........................................................................................ 20
Access to Make Contactless Payments ................................................................................ 20
Interest in Transit Store to Load Fare on Smartphone ......................................................... 22
Negative & Positive Impact of Contactless Pilot .................................................................. 23
Qualitative Positive Impact of Contactless Pilot .................................................................. 24
Qualitative Negative Impact of Contactless Pilot ................................................................ 25
Return to Cash ..................................................................................................................... 26
Would Use Cash for Future Trips ......................................................................................... 26
Conclusion .............................................................................................................. 27
Appendix ................................................................................................................ 29
BBB – Contactless Pilot ........................................................................................................ 30
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1279 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Customer Readiness for Contactless Fares | Final Report
List of Figures
Figure 1: BBB Riders by Age (N=592) ............................................................................... 5
Figure 2: Race/Ethnicity of BBB Riders (N=592) ............................................................... 6
Figure 3: Number of People in Household (N=591) ........................................................ 6
Figure 4: Household Income (N=385) ............................................................................... 7
Figure 5: Map of BBB Customers by Home Zip Code ...................................................... 8
Figure 6: Frequency of BBB Ridership (N=592) .............................................................. 10
Figure 7: BBB Routes by Customers (N=592) ................................................................. 10
Figure 8: Fare Media – BBB Customers Surveyed September 2021 (N=592) ................. 11
Figure 9: Fare Purchase Locations ................................................................................... 12
Figure 10: Fare Category by Total, Regular and Discount Fare Payers .......................... 13
Figure 11: Frequency of Blue-to-Blue and Interagency Transfers (N=592) .................... 14
Figure 12: Aware of Cost Reduction with TAP by Pre-Pilot Fare Type ........................... 16
Figure 13: Discount Fare Awareness ............................................................................... 17
Figure 14: Senior Discount Usage Before and During Pilot (N=79) ................................ 18
Figure 15: LIFE Eligible BBB Customers (N=321) ........................................................... 18
Figure 16: Pre-Pilot Fare Media (N=592) ........................................................................ 20
Figure 17: Customers with Smartphones and Credit Card: March – September ............ 20
Figure 18: Transit Store to Load Fare on Smartphone by Pre-Contactless Fare Type .... 21
Figure 19: Transit Store to Load Fare on Smartphone by Pre-Contactless Fare Type .... 22
Figure 20: Negative & Positive Impact by Pre-Pilot Fare Type ....................................... 23
Figure 23: Should BBB Accept Cash Again? – by Pre-Pilot Fare Type (N=592) ............. 26
Figure 24: Would BBB Customers Use Cash Again? by Pre-Pilot Fare Type .................. 26
List of Tables
Table 1: Routes Boarded per Week and BBB Ridership ................................................... 2
Table 2: LIFE Eligibility Criteria ......................................................................................... 7
Table 3: Top 9 Home Zip Codes for BBB Customers ....................................................... 8
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1280 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Contactless Fares Survey | Introduction & Methods
1
Introduction
On July 12, 2021, Big Blue Bus transitioned to a 100% contactless fare payment
system. The purpose of this shift is to save on operations costs, improve on-time
performance, and increase the safety of passengers and motor coach operators from
possible exposure to pathogens like COVID-19. Initial metrics for success included (1)
convert 85% of customers to contactless fares prior to start of pilot, (2) raise awareness
of available fare discounts to 90%, (3) raise participation in the LIFE program to 10%,
(4) increase average bus speed by 1 mile per hour, (5) save approximately $93,000
annually on cash handling reimbursements, and (6) save approximately $274,000
annually in reduced farebox and cash handling equipment costs. This report addresses
how customers have experienced the contactless pilot approximately 90 days after
implementation. In addition, it identifies progress made towards metric 2 (discount
awareness) and 3 (LIFE participation), and customer transit behavior.
Methods
Between September 9, 2021 and September 21, 2021, Maroon Society conducted 592
intercept surveys at BBB bus stops and on-board BBB buses. Surveys were
administered to collect a representative sample of customer feedback from all 19 BBB
routes by day type and time of day. This included conducting surveys between 6:00
AM and 6:00 PM over a 13-day period. Surveyors wore personal protective gear and
approached BBB customers using hand-held digital tablets to complete the survey. All
surveyors were English-Spanish bilingual, and completed surveys in the preferred
language of the customer.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1281 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Contactless Fares Survey | Introduction & Methods
2
BBB Routes Represented by Survey
The following table lists routes boarded by survey participants each week compared to
weekly BBB ridership. This table demonstrates the close alignment of customers
surveyed and current BBB ridership. Routes boarded by survey participants are aligned
with BBB ridership within 5 percentage points.1 This signifies how highly representative
the survey results are of BBB customers.
Table 1: Routes Boarded per Week and BBB Ridership
Routes Boarded Ridership Alignment
BBB Route (N) (%) (%) Surveyed vs.
Ridership
1 - Santa Monica Blvd. 164 15.5% 16.6% -1.1%
2 - Wilshire Blvd. 70 6.6% 5.0% 1.6%
3 - Lincoln Blvd. 143 13.5% 13.8% -0.3%
Rapid 3 - Lincoln Blvd. 47 4.4% 4.3% 0.1%
5 - Olympic Blvd. 9 0.8% 0.8% 0.1%
7 - Pico Blvd. 175 16.5% 16.8% -0.3%
Rapid 7 - Pico Blvd. 76 7.2% 6.8% 0.3%
Express 7 - Pico Blvd. 23 2.2% 2.0% 0.2%
8 - Ocean Park 24 2.3% 5.2% -2.9%
9 - Pacific Palisades 136 12.8% 3.9% 8.9%
10 - Rapid Downtown LA 5 0.5% 0.3% 0.1%
Rapid 12 - Westwood Blvd. 37 3.5% 7.0% -3.5%
14 - Bundy Dr. Centinela 32 3.0% 6.8% -3.7%
15 - Barrington Ave. 4 0.4% 0.8% -0.5%
16 - Marina del Rey 8 0.8% 0.7% 0.0%
17 - UCLA - VA 21 2.0% 4.3% -2.3%
18 - Abbot Kinney 59 5.6% 3.3% 2.3%
41 - 17th St. - SMC 18 1.7% 0.9% 0.8%
43 - 26th St. 10 0.9% 0.8% 0.2%
Total 1,061 – – –
1 Route 9 –is overrepresented by 8.9%.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1282 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Contactless Fares Survey | Results
3
Results
Section Description
This section offers summary findings from the survey in four sections:
1. Demographic Profile of BBB Customers
2. Ridership and Payment Methods
3. Discount Fare Awareness and Use
4. Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1283 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
4
Demographic Profile of
BBB Customers
BBB customers are linguistically diverse, range in age from youth to
seniors, and live in different areas of Los Angeles County:
LANGUAGE – Thirty percent (30.4%) of customers preferred to
conduct the survey in Spanish. Sixty-nine percent (69.6%)
conducted the survey in English.2 Overall, 70.8% of survey
respondents spoke English very well.
GENDER – BBB customers surveyed were female (60.8%),
38.9% male, and 0.3% non-binary.
AGE – The age of BBB customers continues to reflect an older
cohort – 60% of customers are 35 years and older, whereas
in 2017 half of customers were young than 35.
RACE/ETHNICITY – Hispanic/LatinX are the largest ethnic
group (48%) of BBB customers, down from 60% in March.
This decline coincides with the return of White and Asian
customers who now represent 27% and 10% of riders vs. 20%
and 5%, respectively.
HOUSEHOLD INCOME – Over half (54.2%) of customers live in
households that qualify for LIFE (Low Income Fare is Easy)
based on household size and combined household income.
2 “Language” is based on the language in which the survey was completed. The default language was
English. Surveys were conducted in Spanish when customers indicated a desire to participate in Spanish.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1284 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
5
Age of BBB Customers
In May 2017, 27% of Big Blue Bus customers were 18-24 years old. One and a half
years after the onset of COVID-19, 15% of BBB customers are 18-24 years old. This
percentage is up from March, where only 9% of customers were 18-24 years. It is
anticipated that this age category will continue to increase as UCLA students adopt
BBB transit. As Figure 1 displays, ridership among youth (16-17 years) is up from
previous years. We suspect this resulted from the affordability of the 30-Day Youth
pass, of which 80% of Youth use to pay their fare. BBB is achieving high levels of racial
equity with this fare category, as 84% of users are Youth of Color.3
Figure 1: BBB Riders by Age
(N=592)
3 This includes LatinX (45.5%), African American (34.1%), and Asian (4.5%)
2%
27%
20%
15% 14%
9%
12%
1%
9%
19% 19%
21%
16% 15%
7%
15%
18%
20% 20%
6%
13%
16-17 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-61 62+
May 2017 March 2021 Sept. 2021
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1285 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
6
Race/Ethnicity of BBB Customers
The majority of BBB customers (48%) identify as Hispanic/LatinX. Among Hispanic
customers, 63% conducted the survey in Spanish (179/284). Figure 2 shows the shift in
race/ethnicity of BBB customers that coincided with COVID-19 vaccinations, and
easing of social distancing public health protocols. Between March and September,
more White and Asian customers have either initiated or returned to BBB.
Figure 2: Race/Ethnicity of BBB Riders
(N=592)
Household Size
Nearly 1/4 of BBB customers live in a house with four or more people (24%). Figure 3
illustrates household size of BBB customers.
Figure 3: Number of People in Household
(N=591)
0%
10%
17%
27%
48%
2%
5%
17%
20%
60%
Native American
Asian
Black
White
Hispanic
March. 2021
Sept. 2021
24% 26% 27%
14%
7%
3%
One Two Three Four Five Six or More
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1286 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
7
Household Income
Fifty-nine percent (59%) of BBB customers live in a household with a combined
household income of less than $35,000.
Figure 4: Household Income
(N=385)
Life Eligibility
Survey results show that over half of customers (52%) are eligible for the LIFE program
for free or reduced fares. This calculation was done based on three criteria: (1)
participants answered affirmatively to the question about receiving a LIFE discounted
fare, (2) they viewed the information found in Table 2 and indicated they qualified, and
(3) participants answered questions about household size and household income and
the research team determined if they qualified using the same table below.
Table 2: LIFE Eligibility Criteria
People in Household Household Income to Qualify
Live Alone (1) $41,400 or less
2 $47,300 or less
3 $53,200 or less
4 $59,100 or less
5 $63,850 or less
6 or more $68,600 or less
1%
2%
9%
29%
34%
25%
$100,000-or More
$75,000-$99,999
$50,000-$74,999
$35,000-$49,999
$25,000-$34,999
Less than $25,000
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1287 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Demographic Profile of Customers
8
Neighborhood of BBB Customers
BBB customers live in areas surrounding Metro’s Expo line. Figure 5 illustrates the zip
codes where BBB customers live. Darker shaded areas represent larger concentrations
of riders. Santa Monica, West Wood and Mid-Wilshire are the primary areas where
BBB customers live. Table 3 lists the top 9 Zip codes where customers live.
Figure 5: Map of BBB Customers by Home Zip Code
Table 3: Top 9 Home Zip Codes for BBB Customers
Rank Neighborhood Zip Code Frequency (N) Percent (%)
1 Santa Monica 90405 28 4.7%
2 Westwood 90025 26 4.40%
3 Mid Wilshire 90019 23 3.90%
4 West Adams 90016 21 3.50%
5 Pico Union 90006 19 3.20%
6 Westwood 90024 19 3.20%
7 Mid-City/Pico 90035 17 2.90%
8 Korea Town 90005 16 2.70%
9 Santa Monica 90404 15 2.50%
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1288 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
9
Ridership and Payment
Methods
This section details how customers travel on BBB, pre-Contactless Pilot and
currently. This includes frequency of use and payment methods.
FREQUENCY – Fifty-six percent (56%) of customers ride BBB at
least 4 days per week; and, half ride one route each week.
FARE MEDIA – Seventy-three percent (73%) pay their fare with
TAP. This represents a 28% point increase in TAP over the
past 5 months (73% vs. 45% in March). This increase in TAP is
undoubtedly the result of previous cash users converting to
TAP card.
FARE PURCHASE LOCATION – Forty-four percent (44%)
purchase fares at TAP vending machines, 28% purchase via
the TAP app, 17% from retail locations and 14% from the BBB
Transit Store.
FARE CATEGORY – Forty-eight percent (48%) pay with a single
ride on TAP (45%) or single ride on mobile apps (3%).
TRANSFERS – Approximately ¼ of customers make transfers
either Blue-to-Blue (23%) or Interagency (28%); and, most
Interagency users (83%) claim to receive the discounted
transfer rate.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1289 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
10
Frequency of Riding BBB
Fifty-six percent (55.9%) of customers ride BBB 4 days or more each week.
Figure 6: Frequency of BBB Ridership
(N=592)
Number of BBB Routes Used Weekly
Nearly half of BBB customers ride one route per week. Twenty percent (20%) ride
three or more BBB routes per week. These are not only BBB customers taking parallel
routes with similar origins and destinations; instead, 74% are making B-to-B transfers.
Figure 7: BBB Routes by Customers
(N=592)
8%
36%
49%
7%
Less than 1 day/week 1 to 3 days 4 to 5 days 6 days or more
48%
32%
15%
5%
One Route Two Routes Three Routes Four or More
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1290 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
11
Fare Media
TAP card is the most heavily used fare media, followed by TAP App and Smartphone
app. Half of a percent of survey respondents said they do not usually pay. This is less
than the 4% of riders who do not pay, according to driver reported data. We account
for this discrepancy based on possible embarrassment of customers not wanting to be
truthful about not paying, or the likelihood that people unwilling to pay their fare may
be unlikely to participate in a survey about transit.
Figure 8: Fare Media – BBB Customers Surveyed September 2021
(N=592)
0.5%
7.3%
19.3%
73.0%
I don't usually pay
Smartphone App
TAP App
TAP Card
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1291 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
12
Location to Purchase Fare Products
TAP vending machines are the primary location for purchasing fares. Forty-four
percent (44%) of customers report they typically buy their fares at a Metro vending
machine; and, an almost equal amount (42%) report purchasing fares online via the
TAP app, Smartphone App, or TAP website. Fourteen percent (14%) purchase their
fare at the BBB Transit Store, indicating the continued desire for human interaction
during the fare purchase process.
Figure 9: Fare Purchase Locations
44%
28%
17%
14%
7% 6% 6% 5%
2%
TAP
Vending
Machine
TAP
App
TAP
Retail
Location
BBB
Transit
Store
Smart
-phone
App
TAP
Website
Employer/
School
Access/
Social
Service
TAP
Call
Center
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1292 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
13
0%
0.3%
1%
1%
1%
2%
2%
2%
3%
3%
3%
6%
8%
8%
19%
45%
BBB Annual Pass
Employer-provided pass
TAP Interagency Transfer
TAP-UCLA BruinGo! Quarterly
TAP E-Pass
SMC Pass
TAP U-Pass
TAP UCLA Co-pay Pass
13-Rides Pass
EZ Pass
Single Ride - Mobile Phone
1-Day Pass
Access TAP Card
7-Day Pass
30-Day Pass
TAP Single Ride
Fares Category
Ninety-eight percent (98%) of BBB customers regularly use only 1 form of fare
payment. Nearly half pay for 1-Ride at a time (45% with TAP, 3% with Mobile App),
and over one third (35%) use passes, ranging from 1-day to 30 days.4 There is an
additional 19% who pay their fare with a supplement based on their status as students,
lower income, disabled or seniors.
Figure 10: Fare Category by Total, Regular and Discount Fare Payers
4 The 30-day pass may be overrepresented given that free 30-day passes were distributed proximate to
the survey period.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1293 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Ridership and Payment Methods
14
Transfers
Twenty-three percent (23%) of customers Usually or Always transfer within Big Blue
Bus, and 28% transfer interagency. Eighty-three percent (83%, 137/160) of those who
Usually or Always make interagency transfers report receiving the discounted fare with
stored value. Seventeen percent (17.5%) of interagency transferors report not
receiving the discount because they pay with a pass (50%), they are not aware of the
discount (32%), or because Metro is not presently charging (18%).
Figure 11: Frequency of Blue-to-Blue and Interagency Transfers
(N=592)
38%
16%
24%
15%
8%
34%
17%
23%
18%
10%
Never Rarely Sometimes Usually Always
Blue-to-Blue Interagency
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1294 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Discount Fare Awareness
15
Discount Fare Awareness
and Use
This section details customer awareness of discounted fares and their
eligibility and use of LIFE.
TAP DISCOUNT – Seventy-eight percent (78%) of BBB customers
claim they are aware of the discounted fare offered using TAP.
However, future surveys may ask customers how much a fare costs
with TAP to confirm un-aided awareness.
DISCOUNT FARE AWARENESS – Awareness of discount fares is
high (81%-86%) among Youth, Seniors, and Interagency
customers. Disabled BBB customers have high awareness at
70%; and, LIFE awareness is lower at 27%.
LIFE ELIGIBILITY AND USE – Over half of BBB customers (52%)
are eligible for LIFE. Nine percent (9%) of eligible customers
receive LIFE, and 19% who are aware and eligible do not
receive LIFE.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1295 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Discount Fare Awareness
16
TAP Discount Awareness
Seventy-eight percent (78%) of BBB customers state they are aware of a discounted
fare with TAP. Among BBB customers who used TAP card or TAP app prior to the
contactless pilot, awareness is slightly higher at 81% and 87%, respectively. The
largest discount awareness gap is among customers who previously paid their fare with
cash. Former cash only fare users have 64% awareness compared to 78% of total, and
81% of previously used contactless fares.
Figure 12: Aware of Cost Reduction with TAP by Pre-Pilot Fare Type
78%
23%
81%
19%
64%
37%
Aware Not Aware
Total
(N=592)
Contactless Only
(n=466)
Cash Only
(n=115)
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1296 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Discount Fare Awareness
17
Discount Fare Awareness
BBB set a goal to achieve 90% customer awareness of fare discounts. Figure 13 shows
Seniors and Youth nearly achieve this mark with 86% awareness. Interagency Transfer
customers have a 9% awareness gap to achieve the 90% goal5; and, Disabled
customers may have a 20% awareness gap.6 LIFE eligible customers have 63-
percentage point awareness gap to overcome in order to achieve the goal. This is
discussed further on the following page.
Figure 13: Discount Fare Awareness
5 Interagency Transfer awareness is a calculation of customers to transfer interagency sometimes, usually
or always; and, when they transfer, they pay with a TAP card or App to receive the discount. Among
interagency transfer customers who did not pay to receive the discount, 34% (19/56) were not aware.
6 A direct question about awareness of disabled customers was not asked. This 70% awareness for
Disabled customers contains a numerator calculated from customers who say they received a discount for
being disabled or believe they would be eligible for a disability based discount, and a denominator
calculated from customers who pay with Access TAP, say they received a discount for being disabled or
believe they would be eligible for a disability based discount.
86% 86% 81%
70%
27%
Senior
(N=79)
Youth
(N=44)
Interagency
Transfer
(N=293)
Disabled
(N=56)
LIFE
(N=321)
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1297 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Discount Fare Awareness
18
Senior Discount Usage
Ninety percent (90%) of Seniors used the $.50 co-pay discount prior to the pilot. As of
the pilot, 80% of Seniors receive the contactless based Senior discount. Anecdotal
evidence points to an application process that discourages Seniors from receiving the
discount, primarily because it asks information they do not want to share.
Figure 14: Senior Discount Usage Before and During Pilot
(N=79)
LIFE Eligibility and Use
Over half of BBB customers (52%) are eligible for free or low fares through LIFE; and,
among the eligible, 27% are aware of their eligibility. Figure 15 shows 9% percent of
LIFE eligible BBB customers say they receive LIFE. Eighteen percent (18%) of LIFE
eligible customers who do not receive LIFE, report awareness of the program. Among
these non-users, 38% claim to receive another type of fare discount (senior, disabled,
youth, or other low income). This suggests the proportion of LIFE Aware customers
who do not receive a fare discount is 11% of all LIFE eligible customers, helping
explain why 7% of these customers are not enrolling in LIFE. However, the data do not
allows us to understand why the remainder of eligible and aware customers chooses
not to claim this discount.
Figure 15: LIFE Eligible BBB Customers
(N=321)
90%
80%
Senior $.50 Co-Pay Receive Senior Discount Now
9%
18%
Receiving LIFE Aware & Not Receiving LIFE
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1298 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
19
Customer Perceptions
of Contactless Fare Pilot
IMPLEMENTATION – Almost 80% of customers surveyed
already used a contactless payment method. The remaining
21% paid with cash (19%) or paper pass (2%)
CONTACTLESS FARE ACCESS – Customers with data-ready
smartphones and credit cards may have the greatest ease
with loading fares on their selected fare media. These
customers are more likely to load fares on TAP app and
Smartphone Apps than customers without both a data-ready
smartphone and credit card. Conversely, customers without
both a data-ready smartphone and credit card are more likely
to purchase their fares at a TAP vending machine.
TRANSIT STORE USE – Forty-four percent (44%) purchase fares
at TAP vending machines, 28% purchase via the TAP app,
17% from retail locations and 14% from the BBB Transit Store.
POSITIVE/NEGATIVE IMPACT – Eighty-five percent (85%) of
customers reported no impact from the pilot. However, those
who previously paid with cash reported the greatest positive
and negative consequences from the pilot.
RETURN TO CASH – Nearly 2 out of 3 customers (64%)
surveyed say BBB should accept cash fares again. However,
only 35% would pay with cash for “some or most” trips if BBB
accepts cash fares again.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1299 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
20
Contactless Fare Implementation
Nearly 80% of all BBB customers surveyed used some form of contactless fare prior to
implementation of the contactless pilot. Nineteen percent (19%) of customers
surveyed paid exclusively with cash, and 2% paid with a paper pass.
Figure 16: Pre-Pilot Fare Media
(N=592)
Access to Make Contactless Payments
The research team hypothesized that access to both a data-ready smartphone and
credit card make the purchase of contactless fares easier. Figure 17 shows BBB
customers surveyed in September are more likely to have both a data-ready
smartphone and credit card than customers surveyed in March.
Figure 17: Customers with Smartphones and Credit Card: March – September
Contactless,
79%
Cash Only,
19%
Paper Pass,
2%
1%
3%
79%
63%
September
2021
(N=592)
March
2021
(N=550)
Smartphone
& Credit
No
Smartphone
& No Credit
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1300 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
21
The survey data shows over half (57%) of customers without both a data-ready
smartphone and credit card are more likely to purchase their fares at TAP vending
machines than customers with a data-ready smartphone and credit card. Conversely,
BBB customers with both a smartphone and credit card are more likely than their
counterparts to purchase fares on TAP App, Smartphone Apps and TAP retail.
Figure 18: Transit Store to Load Fare on Smartphone by Pre-Contactless Fare Type
1%
10%
10%
3%
3%
11%
9%
19%
57%
2%
3%
6%
7%
9%
13%
17%
33%
40%
TAP Call Center
Access or Social Services
Employer/School
TAP Website
Smartphone App
BBB Transit Store
TAP Retail
TAP App
TAP Vending Machine
Smartphone &
Credit Card
Not Smartphone &
Credit Card
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1301 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
22
Interest in Transit Store to Load Fare on Smartphone
In addition to the variety of measures taken to ease the transition to contactless
payments, this survey explored the possibility of an option to load fares on a
smartphone from the BBB Transit Store. Customer interest in using the transit store is
consistent across fare payment types. Overall, 73% showed interest going to the BBB
transit store to load fare on a smartphone. This interest may be driven by a common
concern that the TAP cards would not work properly.
“[TAP] cards don't always work and vending machines sometimes don't
allow me to load fare.” (BBB customer)
Figure 19: Transit Store to Load Fare on Smartphone by Pre-Contactless Fare Type
73%
27%
72%
28%
73%
27%
Interest No Interest
Total
(N=592)
Contactless Only
(n=466)
Cash Only
(n=115)
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1302 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
23
Negative & Positive Impact of Contactless Pilot
Most customers (79%, n=468) reported neither a positive nor negative impact from
implementation of contactless fares. However, 85% (394/466) of these individuals used
contactless prior to implementation. Customers who only used Cash prior to
implementation, are much more likely to report either a negative or positive impact
from the contactless fare program. Thirty one percent (31%) of previous cash only
customers reported a negative impact; and, 10% reported a positive impact.
Conversely, almost all customers (84%) who made contactless payments before the
pilot reported no impact.
Figure 20: Negative & Positive Impact by Pre-Pilot Fare Type
5% 9%
79%
4% 3% 2% 7%
85%
3% 3%
13% 18%
58%
6% 4%
Negatively Somewhat
Negatively
Neither
Negative or
Positive
Somewhat
Positively
Positively
Total
(N=592)
Contactless Only
(n=466)
Cash Only
(n=115)
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Packet Pg. 1303 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
24
Qualitative Positive Impact of Contactless Pilot
Customers who expressed a positive or negative experience with the contactless pilot
program were asked to share their thoughts. Customers indicated that contactless
payments are convenient, faster, better for the community, and safer.
Positive Themes
•It’s convenient
•It’s faster
•It’s better for the community
•It’s safer
Customer Quotes
“Cashless is better”
“It’s more convenient to use TAP.”
“I like that I don’t have to take out cash.”
“It's a little confusing but its better for the
community.”
“It’s faster to TAP and Go.”
“No use of cash is better for the pandemic.”
“It's healthier for the community.”
Figure 21: Positive Opinions of the Contactless Pilot
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Packet Pg. 1304 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
25
Qualitative Negative Impact of Contactless Pilot
Negative aspects of the program included difficulty finding a place to load fares,
concerns about loading fares, cost of fares, especially compared to free fares on Metro,
challenges to checking stored value on TAP, and capacity to pay (i.e., what happens if
the technology fails, or customer fails to load TAP). The primary request from those
negatively impacted is to bring back cash as an option.
Negative Themes
•It’s generally inconvenient
•Accessing locations to load TAP is a challenge
•Uncertainty checking value on TAP
•Concern paying fare when TAP doesn’t work
•Concern about paying when fare isn’t loaded
Customer Quotes
“I don't want to have to go to the TAP machine to
ride the bus”
“Finding a TAP vending machine is inconvenient.”
“I think I have to pay more now.”
“I'm not paying on Metro buses.”
“If TAP runs out, I can't pay the fare.”
“It’s too confusing.”
“It’s difficult when there's no money on the card,
and no way to check if I have credit.”
“Sometimes the TAP card doesn’t work.”
Figure 22: Negative Opinions of the Contactless Pilot
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Packet Pg. 1305 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Results – Customer Perceptions of Contactless Fare Pilot
26
Return to Cash
Sixty-four percent of customers say BBB should accept cash again. Customers who
previously used a contactless payment method are more likely to say, No, meaning
BBB should not accept cash again. Conversely, those who previously with cash only
are more likely to say, “Yes,” BBB should accept cash again.
Figure 23: Should BBB Accept Cash Again? – by Pre-Pilot Fare Type
(N=592)
Would Use Cash for Future Trips
Sixty-four percent (64%) of customers would not use cash if BBB accepted it again. The
majority of these people (72%) had already used some form of contactless payment
media prior to implementation. Sixty-five percent (65%) of customers who exclusively
used cash before the pilot say they would use cash again for most trips (23%) and some
trips (42%).
Figure 24: Would BBB Customers Use Cash Again? by Pre-Pilot Fare Type
10%
12%
77%
12%
26%
62%
12%
24%
64%
Don't Know
No
Yes
Total
Contactless Only
Cash Only
64%
27%
8%
72%
23%
4%
36% 42%
23%
No Trips Some Trips Most Trips
Total
(N=592)
Contactless Only
(n=466)
Cash Only
(n=115)
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1306 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Conclusion
27
Conclusion
Big Blue Bus recently became the first transit agency in the United States to implement
a 100% contactless fare payment system. The benefits of this change can already be
found in faster trips, and cost savings. Other benefits, equally important but, more
difficult to measure, include the reduced risk of transmissible illnesses in cash handling
and lingering near fareboxes.
In March 2021, BBB analyzed the potential for disproportionally negative outcomes
experienced by customers protect by Title VI. All impacts experienced by low-income
and racial minority customers were below the federal threshold used to define a
negative impact. The most recent survey shows the majority of lower-income
customers previously paid their fare with cash. Although we cannot indicate how many
cash paying customers remained or left the system, 30% of customers surveyed
previously paid with cash; and, these individuals now pay with TAP.
Most customers (79%) in the current survey reported a neutral response to the
contactless fare pilot; 7% had a positive impact; and, 14% expressed negative opinions
of the pilot. As would be expected, most of the negative comments came from
customers who previously paid with cash. However, customers who previously paid
with cash also had the most positive things to say about the pilot. Negative
experiences included: difficulty finding places to load fares, confusion about loading
fares on TAP, and fear that TAP cards would not working property. Positive comments
highlighted convenience, speed, and community safety.
BBB has done a good job making customers aware of available discounts. Seniors,
Youth, and Interagency customers have the highest levels of awareness at 86% and
81%, respectively. Despite high awareness among Seniors, ten percent of Seniors
who received a Senior discount with the $.50 co-payment before the pilot did not
transition to receive a senior discount on TAP. Anecdotal evidence suggests this is
because some Seniors are resistant to divulging personal information required in the
application. Disability eligible customers have 70% awareness of their discounted fare.
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Packet Pg. 1307 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Conclusion
28
LIFE eligible customers, however, present the greatest opportunity for education.
Twenty-seven percent of LIFE eligible customers are aware of LIFE, and 9% are
receiving LIFE benefits.
BBB should consider targeting LIFE eligible customers for outreach and education at
TAP vending machines and TAP retail locations, where 68% of these customers
purchase fares. There is an opportunity to address some of the barriers Seniors
experience in the discount application process to promote discount use. This mayu
include reducing some of the information required, or reassuring them that their
personal information will not be shared with out government agencies. Interagency
discount awareness has room to improve; yet, an accurate profile of the needs will not
be possible until Metro resumes collecting fares. BBB may benefit by testing
marketing communication with focus groups to identify what messages and distribution
methods resonate best with target Big Blue Bus customers.
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1308 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB | Appendix
29
Appendix
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1309 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Fare Use Survey – Fall 2021
30
BBB – Contactless Pilot
1. Are you at least 14 years old?
a. Yes
b. No (terminate survey)
2. How many days a week do you ride on BBB buses?
a. Don’t Ride! Terminate
b. Occasionally (less than 1 day per week)
c. 1 to 3 days
d. 4 or 5 days
e. 6 or more days
3. BBB route you ride on a weekly basis (select all that apply):
a. 1 Santa Monica Blvd.
b. 2 Wilshire Blvd.
c. 3 Lincoln Blvd.
d. Rapid 3 Lincoln Blvd.
e. 5 Olympic Blvd.
f. 7 Pico Blvd.
g. Rapid 7 Pico Blvd.
h. Express 7 Pico Blvd.
i. 8 Ocean Park
j. 9 Palisades
k. Rapid 10 Downtown Express
l. Rapid 12 Westwood Blvd.
m. 14 Bundy Dr. – Centinela
Ave.
n. 15 Barrington Ave.
o. 16 Marina del Rey
p. 17 UCLA - VA
q. 18 Abbott Kinney
r. 41 17th St.
s. 43 26th St.
t. 44 SMC Bundy Campus
FARE PURCHASE AND PAYMENT METHODS
4. Before BBB stopped accepting cash and tokens (July 12th, 2021), How did you
normally pay for your BBB fare ? (RANK TOP 2)
a. Paid cash on the bus
b. TAP card (Regular, Reduced Fare, ACCESS, UCLA or SMC TAP cards)
c. TAP App on a mobile device (smartphone or Apple Watch)
d. Smartphone App (Transit app, Token Transit app)
e. Paper pass Bought on the bus
f. Paper Pass Bought at the BBB Transit Store
g. BBB employee/retiree/dependent pass
5. Now, How do you usually pay for your BBB fare?
a. TAP card (Regular, Reduced Fare, ACCESS, UCLA or SMC TAP cards)
b. TAP app on a mobile device (smartphone or Apple Watch)
c. Smartphone app (Transit app, Token Transit app)
d. I usually don’t pay
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Packet Pg. 1310 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
BBB Fare Use Survey – Fall 2021
31
ONLY ASK Q6. IF “DON’T PAY” AT Q.5
6. Why don’t you usually pay the fare on BBB? (SELECT ALL THAT APPLY)
a. I don’t have a TAP card
b. I don’t have a smartphone
c. I don’t have a credit card
d. Because I can ride without paying
e. Other
7. Where do you typically obtain your BBB fare products? (SELECT ALL THAT
APPLY)
a. TAP - Ticket Vending Machine
b. TAP - Website or call center
c. TAP - Retail location (Ralph’s, 7-11, CVS, Walgreens, Check Cashing,
etc.)
d. BBB Transit Store
e. Smartphone app (Token Transit app, Transit app)
f. TAP app on a mobile device (smartphone or Apple Watch)
g. My pass is provided by my employer or school
h. My pass is provided by Access or another social service agency
8. Which BBB fare(s) do you normally choose now? (SELECT 1 OR 2)
a. TAP (stored value) single ride
b. TAP UCLA BruinGo! quarterly pass
c. TAP UCLA Co-pay Pass
d. TAP E-Pass
e. TAP U-Pass
f. TAP Interagency Transfer
g. Access TAP Card
h. Single ride on mobile phone
i. 1 Day Pass
j. 7-Day Pass
k. 30-Day Pass
l. 13 Rides Pass
m. Youth 30-Day Pass
n. BBB Annual Pass
o. EZ Pass
p. Employer-provided pass
q. Santa Monica College pass
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1311 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
32
TRANSFER TRIPS WITHIN BBB AND TO/FROM BBB
9. Thinking about 1-way trips on the Big Blue Bus, How often do you transfer from
Big Blue Bus to another Big Blue Bus (Blue to Blue)?
a. Never
b. Rarely
c. Sometimes
d. Usually
e. Always
10. Thinking about 1-way trips on the Big Blue Bus, How often do you transfer to or
from Big Blue Bus to another bus or rail systems (Blue to/from Orange LA
Metro Bus, Green Culver CityBus, etc.)]?
a. Never !SKIP TO Q.13
b. Rarely
c. Sometimes
d. Usually
e. Always
11. When you transfer to other transit providers (not BBB), Do you use TAP Stored
Value to purchase the discounted $0.50 Regular or $0.25 Senior/Disabled
Interagency Transfer?
a. Yes !SKIP TO Q.13
b. No
12. What is the main reason you don’t use TAP Stored Value to pay for your
transfer?
a. Not aware of the transfer discount
b. I pay with a pass or passes on BBB and other transit agencies
c. Because Metro isn’t charging a fare currently
d. Because I don’t use TAP to pay my fare
13. Are you aware that single rides cost less when using TAP or a mobile ticket than
they did when using cash?
a. Yes
b. No
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Packet Pg. 1312 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
33
CONTACTLESS FARE PERCEPTIONS
14. How has the contactless fare program (no cash use on board) affected you?
c. Negatively
d. Somewhat negatively
e. Neither negative nor Positive !SKIP TO Q.16
f. Somewhat positively
g. Positively
15. Please describe any positive or negative impacts you have experienced as a
result of the contactless fare program [open ended]:
________________________________________
16. The goal of contactless payments on buses is to move buses faster, make fare
payment more sanitary, and reduce the fare price for each ride. Understanding
these goals, should BBB return to accepting cash fare payments?
a. Yes
b. No
c. I don’t know
17. If BBB goes back to accepting cash, will you start using cash again?
a. Yes, for most trips
b. Yes, for some trips
c. No
ONLY ASK Q18. IF “SOMEWHAT NEGATIVELY” OR “NEGATIVELY” AT Q.14
18. What can BBB do to improve the contactless fare program? [open ended]:
___________________________________________________________
SMARTPHONE AND CREDIT ACCESS
19. Do you have a smartphone?
a. Yes
b. No !SKIP TO Q.22
20. Does your phone have a data plan?
a. Yes !SKIP TO Q.22
b. No
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1313 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
34
21. Do you access the Internet on your phone using Wi-Fi?
a. Yes
b. No
22. Do you have a credit, debit, or pre-paid card to make purchases?
a. Yes
b. No
ONLY ASK Q23 IF “YES” AT Q.20
23. Would you be interested in using mobile ticketing (smartphone app) if you could
load value to your phone at the BBB Transit Store using cash?
a. Yes
b. No
REDUCED FARE OPTIONS
24. Are you aware that there are reduced fares available for seniors (62+), people
with Disabilities, Medicare recipients, and/or youth?
a. Yes
b. No !SKIP TO Q.26
25. Which of the reduced fares are you receiving, IF ANY? (SELECT ALL THAT
APPLY)
a. Senior (62+)
b. Disabled/Medicare recipient
c. Youth (5-18 years of age)
d. Low-Income (LIFE)
e. Not Receiving a discount
f. I don’t know
ONLY ASK Q26. IF “NO” AT Q.24 OR “NOT RECEIVING” OR “DON’T KNOW” AT
Q.25
26. What reduced fares might you qualify for? (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)
a. Senior (62+)
b. Disabled/Medicare recipient
c. Youth (5-18 years of age)
d. Low-Income (LIFE)
e. None of the above
f. I don’t know
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1314 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
35
ASK Q27. IF “RECEIVING SENIOR, DISABLED OR LOW INCOME DISCOUNT” AT
Q.25 OR “QUALIFIED TO RECEIVE SENIOR, DISABLED OR LOW INCOME
DISCOUNT” AT Q.26
27. Before BBB stopped accepting cash and tokens, did you receive the senior or
disabled/Medicare reduced fare by paying $0.50 with cash?
a. Yes
b. No
LIFE PROGRAM
28. Are you aware of the free or reduced fare available for low-income riders through
the LIFE program?
a. Yes
b. No !SKIP TO Q.30
29. Are you currently receiving the LIFE program reduced fare?
a. Yes
b. No
c. I don’t know
30. Are you eligible for reduced fares based on household income?
(SEE ELIGIBILITY GRID)
a. Yes
b. No
c. I don’t know
People in Household Combined Income to
Qualify
Live Alone (1) $41,400 or less
2 $47,300 or less
3 $53,200 or less
4 $59,100 or less
5 $63,850 or less
6 or more $68,600 or less
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Packet Pg. 1315 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
36
DEMOGRAPHICS
31. What is your gender?
a. Male
b. Female
c. Non-binary
32. In which age category do you belong?
a. 14-17
b. 18 to 24
c. 25-34
d. 35-44
e. 45-54
f. 55-61
g. 62 and Older
33. Select the group(s) that best describe you. (select all that apply)
a. Hispanic/Latino/Latinx
b. White
c. Black/African-American
d. Asian/Pacific Islander
e. Native American
f. Other: ____________________
34. How many people currently reside in your household? _____________
35. What is your annual household income?
a. Less than $25,000
b. $25,000 – $34,999
c. $35,000 – $49,999
d. $50,000 – $74,999
e. 75,000 – $99,999
f. More than $100,000
g. decline
36. How proficient are you in English?
a. I speak little to no English
b. I speak some English
c. I speak English very well
37. What is your home zip code? __________________
8.A.e
Packet Pg. 1316 Attachment: 2nd On-Board Survey Contactless Fares Pilot - October 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Big Blue Bus
Title VI Fare Equity Analysis
Simplified fare structure
December 2021
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Packet Pg. 1317 Attachment: Title VI Fare Equity Analysis - December 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Page 1
Table of Contents
Table of Contents .......................................................................................................................................... 1
Purpose ......................................................................................................................................................... 2
Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................... 2
Background ................................................................................................................................................... 3
Fare Structure ............................................................................................................................................... 3
Fare Utilization .............................................................................................................................................. 4
Proposed Fare Media Changes ..................................................................................................................... 4
Methodology ................................................................................................................................................. 5
Data Sources ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Definitions ................................................................................................................................................. 6
Title VI Policies .............................................................................................................................................. 6
Fare Equity Disparate Impact Policy ..................................................................................................... 6
Fare Equity Disproportionate Burden Policy ........................................................................................ 7
Fare Equity Analysis ...................................................................................................................................... 7
Disparate Impact Analysis ......................................................................................................................... 7
Disparate Impact Findings..................................................................................................................... 7
Disparate Impact Conclusion ................................................................................................................ 8
Disproportionate Burden Analysis ............................................................................................................ 9
Disproportionate Burden Findings ........................................................................................................ 9
Disproportionate Burden Conclusion ................................................................................................. 10
Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................... 11
Appendix ..................................................................................................................................................... 12
8.A.f
Packet Pg. 1318 Attachment: Title VI Fare Equity Analysis - December 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Page 2
Purpose
In the summer of 2021, Big Blue Bus implemented a purely contactless fare system as part of a six-month
pilot program. As a result, BBB eliminated all on-board cash fares and BBB magnetic fare cards. During
this pilot period, riders have only been able to pay their fare using either the regional TAP fare payment
system or mobile ticketing. Cash and magnetic fare cards are no longer accepted on-board. Six-months
later, BBB is now planning to fully adopt the changes made during the contactless pilot and is also
proposing new changes to simplify the existing fare structure.
The newly proposed changes are subject to a fare equity analysis as defined by BBB’s Major Service and
Fare Change Policy. The fare equity analysis, contained herein, is required to ensure compliance with the
Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Title VI regulations as defined by FTA Circular 4702.1B. The purpose
of this analysis is to determine whether the proposed changes result in a disparate impact on the basis of
race, ethnicity, or national origin, or a disproportionate burden on the defined low-income population.
Executive Summary
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin
in any program or activity that receives Federal funds or other Federal financial assistance. In compliance
with this law, Big Blue Bus has conducted a Title VI analysis of the proposed fare changes.
This analysis found that some of the proposed changes exceed BBB’s disparate impact and
disproportionate burden thresholds and, as such, require additional analysis to determine how the
minority and low-income populations will be impacted by the changes. This additional analysis found that
most of the proposed changes will benefit the minority and low-income populations. Only one proposed
change, the elimination of the existing 13 Ride Pass, would result in a disparate impact. As a result, BBB
has proposed a new 10 Ride Pass, as a replacement fare product for the existing 13 Ride pass, to mitigate
the impact.
As defined by BBB policy, the changes being proposed will not result in a disparate impact on the minority
population or a disproportionate burden on the low-income population.
8.A.f
Packet Pg. 1319 Attachment: Title VI Fare Equity Analysis - December 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Page 3
Background
Due to COVID-19, BBB suspended fare collection on March 20, 2020 to slow the spread of disease. This
led BBB staff to reexamine strategies for shifting more passengers to contactless fare media. Contactless
fare payment options have several benefits. They can reduce dwell times, improve on-time performance,
and will ultimately result in faster travel times for passengers riding the bus. Contactless fares also operate
separately from the on-board farebox and are, therefore, not susceptible to farebox malfunctions which
result in lost revenue. A goal was set to pilot the elimination of on-board cash fares and the elimination
of magnetic fare cards soon after the fare collection resumed on February 14, 2021. On July 12, 2021, BBB
eliminated on-board cash fares and magnetic fare cards as part of a six-month pilot program.
A follow-up passenger survey was conducted in September 2021 to gauge customer reaction to the
contactless pilot program, the results of which can be found in the “Appendix” section of this report. Of
all surveyed riders, only 13.8% indicted that the contactless fare program affected them either
“Negatively” or “Somewhat negatively”. The majority of riders, 79.1%, selected the neutral option that
the program affected them “Neither negative nor Positive”. While 64.4% of riders wanted BBB to return
to accepting cash fare payments, 64.2% would not use cash again, 27.4% would use cash for some trips,
and 8.4% would use cash for most trips. As such, BBB does not intend to return to collecting on-board
cash fares and plans to fully adopt the changes made during the contactless pilot.
With the information gained through the contactless fare pilot and corresponding passenger surveys, BBB
is now planning to simplify the existing fare structure through several proposed changes. These changes
seek to: 1) reduce the number of available fare options through the elimination of existing fare products,
2) adjust pricing to encourage a higher rate of adoption of BBB’s pass products.
Fare Structure
BBB fares vary based on rider classification and fare category. Rider classifications include: Regular (age
19-61), Youth (age 5-18), Senior 62+/Disabled/Medicare (shown as S/D/M), and Child (age 4 and under).
Current fare categories include: Single Trip, Day Pass, 7-Day Pass, 13 Ride Pass, 30-Day Pass, and Annual
Pass. Fare prices vary based on rider classification and fare category. Customers with a valid Access ID ride
for free and children ages 4 and under ride for free as well, which will expand to age 5 and under in the
proposed changes.
Fare Category Regular Fare S/D/M Fare
Single Trip $1.10 $0.50
Day Pass $4.00 $1.50
7-Day Pass $14.00 -
13 Ride Pass $14.00 $6.00
30-Day Pass $50.00 $24.00
Annual Pass $500.00 -
Youth 30-Day Pass $19.00 -
Figure 1: Existing BBB Fare Pricing as of December 2021
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Packet Pg. 1320 Attachment: Title VI Fare Equity Analysis - December 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Page 4
Fare Utilization
When fare collection resumed on February 14, 2021, cash ridership, as a percentage of total ridership,
was significantly higher than it was before fare collection was suspended. Ridership on UCLA and SMC
passes previously made up 23% of the total systemwide ridership. In the absence of those rider
populations, at institutions closed due to the pandemic, a large number of contactless fare riders had
been removed from the system, leaving behind a majority of cash riders. When BBB conducted the March
2021 Passenger Survey, 57.0% of riders indicted that they used cash to pay their fares on-board. BBB
subsequently eliminated on-board cash fares as part of the contactless fare pilot program and cash riders
had to migrate to one of BBB’s alternative fare payment options. The most popular fares, according to the
recent September 2021 Passenger Survey, are the Single Trip fare, “Other” fares (UCLA, SMC, ACCESS),
and the 30-Day Pass, in that order.
Fare Category Number of Riders Percent of All Riders
Single Trip 283 46.7%
Day Pass 33 5.5%
7-Day Pass 50 8.2%
13 Ride Pass 15 2.5%
30-Day Pass 76 12.5%
Annual Pass 0 0%
Youth 30-Day Pass 35 5.8%
Metro EZ Pass 15 2.5%
Other 99 16.3%
Total 606 100%
Figure 2: BBB Fare Utilization Comparison from September 2021 Survey
Proposed Fare Media Changes
The newly proposed fare changes include: 1) the elimination of the Day Pass, 7-Day Pass, and Annual Pass,
2) the elimination and replacement of the 13 Ride Pass with a new 10 Ride Pass, 3) an decrease of $0.10
for the Single Trip (Regular) fare, 4) a decrease of $20.00 for the 30-Day Pass (Regular), 5) a decrease of
$4.00 for the 30-Day Pass (S/D/M), 6) the introduction and acceptance of the Metro Day Pass, 7) the
introduction of free BBB-to-BBB transfers for riders using the Single Trip fare or 10 Ride Pass.
The proposed changes are intended to simplify the existing fare structure through the elimination of
underutilized fare products. The Day Pass, 7-Day Pass, and Annual Pass, which are proposed for
elimination, account for 13.7% of all rides. These riders are expected to shift to the existing Single Ride
fare, 30-Day Pass, or BBB’s new 10 Ride Pass. Simplifying the fare structure will reduce customer confusion
and makes it easier for customers to select the fare best suited to their transportation needs. Other
proposed changes include price changes for certain fares and the introduction of two new fare products.
These changes will align prices across the fare product spectrum and expand BBB’s current offerings for
customers that transfer between BBB-to-BBB buses or BBB-to-Metro buses or trains.
8.A.f
Packet Pg. 1321 Attachment: Title VI Fare Equity Analysis - December 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Page 5
Fare Category
Regular Fares
S/D/M Fares
On-Board
Cash Fare
TAP & Mobile
Ticket Fare
On-Board
Cash Fare
TAP & Mobile
Ticket Fare
Single Trip Eliminated
July 2021
Decrease $0.10
($1.00)
Eliminated
July 2021
No Change
($0.50)
Day Pass - Eliminated
($4.00) - Eliminated
($1.50)
7-Day Pass - Eliminated
($14.00) - -
10 Ride Pass - New
($9.00) - New
($4.50)
13 Ride Pass - Eliminated
($14.00) - Eliminated
($6.00)
30-Day Pass - Decrease $20.00
($30.00) - Decrease $4.00
($20.00)
Annual Pass - Eliminated
($500.00) - -
Youth 30-Day Pass - No change
($19.00) - -
Metro Day Pass - New
($7.00) - New
($2.50)
Metro EZ Pass - No change
($110.00) - No change
($42.00)
Interagency Transfer - No change
($0.50) - No change
($0.25)
BBB to BBB Transfer - New
(Free with fare) - New
(Free with fare)
Figure 3: Proposed Changes to BBB Fare Structure (change in red / new price in parentheses)
Methodology
Data Sources
The following fare equity analysis was completed using passenger survey data collected from the
September 2021 Passenger Survey.
The following information was obtained from the passenger survey for use in the fare equity analysis:
• Method of fare payment
• Fare category
• Rider race/ethnicity
• Household income
• Household size
Rider demographics were combined with the fare category to determine the systemwide, minority, and
low-income fare utilization for all fare payment options. The resulting comparison of fare utilization
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between minority and non-minority riders, and low-income and non-low-income riders, will establish
whether the proposed changes result in a disparate impact or disproportionate burden as defined by
BBB’s adopted policies.
Definitions
In performing the fare equity analysis, minority riders are defined as survey respondents who completed
the race/ethnicity question and marked any category besides White-alone. Low-income riders are defined
as survey respondents who completed the household income and household size questions and are
deemed eligible to participate in the Low-Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) program.
The household income limits established by the LIFE program are the same guidelines that BBB uses to
determine which riders define the low-income population.
Low-Income Fare is Easy (LIFE)
Household Income Limits
Persons per
Household Annual Income
1 $39,450 or less
2 $45,050 or less
3 $50,700 or less
4 $56,300 or less
5 $60,850 or less
6 $65,350 or less
Figure 4: 2021 LIFE Household Income Limits
Title VI Policies
As required by the FTA Title VI regulations, the public was engaged in the development of BBB’s disparate
impact and disproportionate burden policies. These two policies will determine if the proposed fare media
changes result in a disparate impact or disproportionate burden.
Fare Equity Disparate Impact Policy:
“A disparate impact occurs when the percent minority population adversely impacted by a major service
change is fifteen percent (15%) higher than the average minority population of the Big Blue Bus service
area, or when the percent non-minority population beneficially impacted by a major service change is
fifteen percent (15%) higher than the average non-minority population of the Big Blue Bus service area.
If a disparate impact exists as a result of the proposed changes, Big Blue Bus will determine whether there
are alternatives that would serve the same legitimate objectives but with less disparate impact on the
minority population. If there are no viable alternatives, Big Blue Bus must have a substantial legitimate
justification for making the proposed change.”
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Fare Equity Disproportionate Burden Policy:
“A disproportionate burden occurs when the percent low-income population adversely impacted by a
major service change is fifteen percent (15%) higher than the average low-income population of the Big
Blue Bus service area, or when the percent non-low-income population beneficially impacted by a major
service change is fifteen percent (15%) higher than the average non-low-income population of the Big Blue
Bus service area.
If a disproportionate burden exists as a result of the proposed changes, Big Blue Bus may take steps to
avoid, minimize, or mitigate the impact of the proposed change on the low-income population.”
Fare Equity Analysis
The fare equity analysis will determine whether the minority and low-income populations will be unfairly
impacted by the proposed changes. Changes that result in a 15% difference between the impacted
minority and low-income populations and their corresponding systemwide percentages will require
further analysis to determine if there is a disparate impact or disproportionate burden.
Disparate Impact Analysis
There were 592 respondents that completed the race/ethnicity question in the September 2021 survey.
Of these total responses, 74.5% of all riders were identified as minority riders.
Figure 5: Systemwide Ridership by Race
Disparate Impact Findings
• Minority riders comprise 74.5% of all systemwide riders
• The elimination of the 13 Ride Pass exceeds the 15% Disparate Impact threshold
• The decreased price of the 30-Day Pass (S/D/M) exceeds the 15% Disparate Impact threshold
• All other proposed changes are below the 15% threshold
74.5%
25.5%
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Minority Riders
Non-Minority Riders
Percent of All Riders
September 2021 Survey -Ridership by Race
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Fare Media Type Proposed
Change
Non-
Minority
Riders
Minority
Riders
Non-
Minority
Percent
Minority
Percent
Minority
vs. Non-
Minority
Difference
Minority vs.
Systemwide
Difference
Day Pass Eliminate 10 23 30.3% 69.7% +39.4% -4.8%
7-Day Pass Eliminate 12 38 24.0% 76.0% +52.0% +1.5%
Annual Pass Eliminate 0 0 0% 0% 0% 0%
13 Ride Pass Replace 1 14 6.7% 93.3% +86.6% +18.8%
Single Ride
(Regular)
Decrease
of $0.10 54 188 22.3% 77.7% +55.4% +3.2%
30-Day Pass
(Regular)
Decrease
of $20.00 12 53 18.5% 81.5% +63.0% +7.0%
30-Day Pass
(S/D/M)
Decrease
of $4.00 6 5 54.4% 45.5% -8.9% -29.0%
Figure 6: Fare Utilization Comparison by Race
Disparate Impact Conclusion
Based on the 15% threshold, established in the Disparate Impact Policy, the elimination of the 13 Ride
Pass would result in a disparate impact. Minority riders constitute 93.3% of all riders using the 13 Ride
Pass, a difference of +18.8% compared with the systemwide minority percentage. To mitigate this impact,
BBB will introduce a new 10 Ride Pass as a replacement for the 13 Ride Pass. The 10 Ride Pass will be
priced at $9.00 (Regular) and $4.50 (S/D/M) and will have a price per ride of $0.90 (Regular) and $0.45
(S/D/M). This pricing is considered a beneficial change over the existing 13 Ride Pass which had a price
per ride of $1.08 (Regular) and $0.46 (S/D/M). All riders using the 10 Ride Pass will pay less per ride
compared with the 13 Ride Pass. The introduction of the 10 Ride Pass will benefit minority riders to a
higher degree than non-minority riders and is considered an adequate measure to mitigate the disparate
impact finding.
The only other proposed change that exceeds the 15% threshold is the decreased price for the 30-Day
Pass (S/D/M). Minority riders constitute 45.5% of all riders using the 30-Day Pass (S/D/M), a difference of
-29.0% compared with the systemwide minority percentage. Since this proposed change results in a price
decrease, it is considered a beneficial change that benefits non-minority riders to a higher degree than
minority riders. However, the 30-Day Pass (S/D/M) accounts for only 1.8% of total BBB rides and, given
that both non-minority and minority riders will benefit from the price decrease, the proposed change is
not considered a disparate impact on the minority population.
The introduction and acceptance of the Metro Day Pass on BBB buses is considered a new fare product.
The Metro Day Pass is priced at $7.00 (Regular) and $2.50 (S/D/M). While BBB is planning to eliminate the
BBB Day Pass, the Metro Day Pass is not considered a direct replacement for that fare product. Instead,
the Metro Day Pass is targeted to infrequent riders, such as tourists, who might purchase this pass from
one of Metro’s ticket vending machines. Acceptance of the Metro Day Pass will prevent BBB from turning
away these potential riders that may not have access to BBB’s fare products. Since this is a new fare
product, its introduction will not result in a disparate impact on the minority population.
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The introduction of free BBB-to-BBB transfers with paid fare is also a new fare product. Current riders
must pay the full Single Trip fare when transferring from one BBB bus to a second BBB bus. Customers
using any of BBB’s current pass products (Day Pass, 7-Day Pass, 30-Day Pass, Annual Pass) do not pay an
additional fee to transfer buses since the pass products provide unlimited riding within their allotted time
period. Enabling free BBB-to-BBB transfers will benefit Single Trip and 10 Ride Pass riders that transfer
between two BBB routes on a one-way journey as those riders will no longer pay an additional fare to ride
a second BBB bus. Minority riders make up 77.7% of all Single Trip (Regular) riders and 72.7% of all Single
Trip (S/D/M) riders, which is +5.0% higher and -1.8% lower, respectively, than the systemwide minority
percentage of 74.5%. Of the 264 riders that selected the Single Trip fare, 118 indicated that they transfer
from one BBB bus to another BBB bus “Sometimes”, “Usually”, or “Always”. Of these 118 riders, 96 are
minority riders or 81.4%, which is +6.9% higher than the systemwide minority percentage. As such, the
introduction of free BBB-to-BBB transfers will benefit minority riders to a higher degree than non-minority
riders and will not result in a disparate impact on the minority population.
All other proposed changes are below the 15% threshold and will not result in a disparate impact.
Disproportionate Burden Analysis
There were 385 respondents that completed the household income and household size questions in the
September 2021 survey. Of these total responses, 86.5% of all riders were identified as low-income riders
(riders whose reported household income met the established thresholds of the LIFE program).
Figure 7: Systemwide Ridership by Income
Disproportionate Burden Findings
• Low-income riders comprise 86.5% of systemwide riders
• The decreased price of the 30-Day Pass (Regular) exceeds the 15% Disproportionate Burden
threshold
• All other proposed changes are below the 15% threshold
86.5%
13.5%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Low-Income Riders
Non-Low-Income Riders
Percent of All Riders
Septmeber 2021 Survey -Ridership by Income
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Fare Media Type Proposed
Change
Non-
Low-
Income
Riders
Low-
Income
Riders
Non-Low-
Income
Percent
Low-
Income
Percent
Low
Income vs.
Non-Low-
Income
Difference
Low-Income
vs.
Systemwide
Difference
Day Pass Eliminate 4 16 20.0% 80.0% +60.0% -6.5%
7-Day Pass Eliminate 5 35 12.5% 87.5% +75.0% +1.0%
Annual Pass Eliminate 0 0 0% 0% 0% 0%
13 Ride Pass Replace 1 9 10.0% 90.0% +80.0% +3.5%
Single Ride
(Regular)
Decrease
of $0.10 17 144 10.6% 89.4% +78.8% +2.9%
30-Day Pass
(Regular)
Decrease
of $20.00 12 30 28.6% 71.4% +42.8% -15.1%
30-Day Pass
(S/D/M)
Decrease
of $4.00 0 7 0% 100% +100% +13.5%
Figure 8: Fare Utilization Comparison by Income
Disproportionate Burden Conclusion
The only proposed change that exceeds the 15% threshold is the decreased price for the 30-Day Pass
(Regular). Low-income riders constitute 71.4% of all riders using the 30-Day Pass (Regular), a difference
of -15.1% compared with the systemwide low-income percentage. Since this proposed change results in
a price decrease, it is considered a beneficial change that will benefit non-low-income riders to a higher
degree than low-income riders. Given that both non-low-income and low-income riders will benefit from
the price decrease, the proposed change is not considered a disproportionate burden on the low-income
population.
As stated in the Disparate Impact analysis, the introduction and acceptance of the Metro Day Pass on BBB
buses is considered a new fare product. The Metro Day Pass is priced at $7.00 (Regular) and $2.50 (S/D/M).
While BBB is planning to eliminate the BBB Day Pass, the Metro Day Pass is not considered a direct
replacement for that fare product. Instead, the Metro Day Pass is targeted to infrequent riders, such as
tourists, who might purchase this pass from one of Metro’s ticket vending machines. Acceptance of the
Metro Day Pass will prevent BBB from turning away these potential riders that may not have access to
BBB’s fare products. Since this is a new fare product, its introduction will not result in a disproportionate
burden on the low-income population.
As also stated in the Disparate Impact analysis, the introduction of free BBB-to-BBB transfers with paid
fare is also a new fare product. Current riders must pay the full Single Trip fare when transferring from
one BBB bus to another. Customers using any of BBB’s current pass products (Day Pass, 7-Day Pass, 30-
Day Pass, Annual Pass) do not pay an additional fee to transfer buses since the pass products provide
unlimited riding within their allotted time period. Enabling free BBB-to-BBB transfers will benefit Single
Trip and 10 Ride Pass riders that transfer between two BBB routes on a one-way journey. Low-income
riders make up 89.4% of all Single Trip (Regular) and 100% of all Single Trip (S/D/M) riders, which is +2.9%
higher and +10.6% higher, respectively, than the systemwide low-income percentage of 86.5%.
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Of the 179 riders that answered the income question and selected the Single Trip fare, 89 indicated that
they transfer from one BBB bus to another BBB bus “Sometimes”, “Usually”, or “Always”. Of these 89
riders, 82 are low-income riders or 92.1%, which is +5.6% higher than the systemwide low-income
percentage. As such, the introduction of free BBB-to-BBB transfers will benefit low-income riders to a
higher degree than non-low-income riders and will not result in a disproportionate burden on the low-
income population.
All other proposed changes are below the 15% threshold and will not result in a disproportionate burden.
Conclusion
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin
in any program or activity that receives Federal funds or other Federal financial assistance. In compliance
with this law, Big Blue Bus has conducted a Title VI analysis on the proposed fare changes. This analysis
has found that the proposed changes will not result in a disparate impact on the minority population or a
disproportionate burden on the low-income population.
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Appendix
1.1 Big Blue Bus – September 2021 Passenger Survey Results
1. Are you at least 14 years old?
a. Yes >> 592 of 592 (100%)
b. No >> 0 of 592
2. How many days a week do you ride on BBB buses?
a. Occasionally (less than 1 day per week) >> 50 of 592 (8.5%)
b. 1 to 3 days >> 211 of 592 (35.6%)
c. 4 or 5 days >> 289 of 592 (48.8%)
d. 6 or more days >> 42 of 592 (7.1%)
3. BBB route you ride on a weekly basis
(Select all that apply)
a. 1 Santa Monica Blvd. >> 164 of 1,060 (15.5%)
b. 2 Wilshire Blvd. >> 70 of 1,060 (6.6%)
c. 3 Lincoln Blvd. >> 143 of 1,060 (13.5%)
d. Rapid 3 Lincoln Blvd. >> 47 of 1,060 (4.4%)
e. 5 Olympic Blvd. >> 9 of 1,060 (0.8%)
f. 7 Pico Blvd. >> 175 of 1,060 (16.5%)
g. Rapid 7 Pico Blvd. >> 76 of 1,060 (7.2%)
h. Express 7 Pico Blvd. >> 23 of 1,060 (2.2%)
i. 8 Ocean Park >> 24 of 1,060 (2.3%)
j. 9 Palisades >> 136 of 1,060 (12.8%)
k. Rapid 10 Downtown Express >> 5 of 1,060 (0.5%)
l. Rapid 12 Westwood Blvd. >> 37 of 1,060 (3.5%)
m. 14 Bundy Dr. – Centinela Ave. >> 32 of 1,060 (3.0%)
n. 15 Barrington Ave. >> 4 of 1,060 (0.4%)
o. 16 Marina del Rey >> 8 of 1,060 (0.8%)
p. 17 UCLA – VA >> 21 of 1,060 (2.0%)
q. 18 Abbott Kinney >> 59 of 1,060 (5.6%)
r. 41 17th St. >> 17 of 1,060 (1.6%)
s. 43 26th St. >> 10 of 1,060 (0.9%)
t. 44 SMC Bundy Campus >> 0 of 1,060
--FARE PURCHASE AND PAYMENT METHODS--
4. Before BBB stopped accepting cash and tokens (July 12th, 2021), how did you
normally pay for your BBB fare?
(Rank top two)
a. Paid cash on the bus >> 178 of 670 (26.6%)
b. TAP card (Regular, Reduced Fare, ACCESS, UCLA or SMC TAP cards) >> 388 of 670
(57.9%)
c. TAP App on a mobile device (smartphone or Apple Watch) >> 62 of 670 (9.3%)
d. Smartphone App (Transit app, Token Transit app) >> 31 of 670 (4.6%)
e. Paper pass Bought on the bus >> 2 of 670 (0.3%)
f. Paper Pass Bought at the BBB Transit Store >> 9 of 670 (1.3%)
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g. BBB employee/retiree/dependent pass >> 0 of 670
5. Now, how do you usually pay for your BBB fare?
a. TAP card (Regular, Reduced Fare, ACCESS, UCLA or SMC TAP cards) >> 432 of 592
(73.0%)
b. TAP app on a mobile device (smartphone or Apple Watch) >> 114 of 592 (19.3%)
c. Smartphone app (Transit app, Token Transit app) >> 43 of 592 (7.3%)
d. I usually don’t pay >> 3 of 592 (0.5%)
6. Why don’t you usually pay the fare on BBB?
(Select all that apply)
a. I don’t have a TAP card >> 1 of 3
b. I don’t have a smartphone >> 0 of 3
c. I don’t have a credit card >> 0 of 3
d. Because I can ride without paying >> 1 of 3
e. Other >> 1 of 3
7. Where do you typically obtain your BBB fare products?
(Select all that apply)
a. TAP - Ticket Vending Machine >> 259 of 761 (34.0%)
b. TAP - Website or call center >> 48 of 761 (6.3%)
c. TAP - Retail location (Ralph’s, 7-11, CVS, Walgreens, Check Cashing, etc.) >> 100 of 761
(13.1%)
d. BBB Transit Store >> 81 of 761 (10.6%)
e. Smartphone app (Token Transit app, Transit app) >> 43 of 761 (5.7%)
f. TAP app on a mobile device (smartphone or Apple Watch) >> 168 of 761 (22.1%)
g. My pass is provided by my employer or school >> 34 of 761 (4.5%)
h. My pass is provided by Access or another social service agency >> 28 of 761 (3.7%)
8. Which BBB fare(s) do you normally choose now?
(Select one or two)
a. TAP (stored value) single ride >> 264 of 606 (43.6%)
b. TAP UCLA BruinGo! quarterly pass >> 4 of 606 (0.7%)
c. TAP UCLA Co-pay Pass >> 14 of 606 (2.3%)
d. TAP E-Pass >> 8 of 606 (1.3%)
e. TAP U-Pass >> 11 of 606 (1.8%)
f. TAP Interagency Transfer >> 3 of 606 (0.5%)
g. Access TAP Card >> 48 of 606 (7.9%)
h. Single ride on mobile phone >> 19 of 606 (3.1%)
i. 1 Day Pass >> 33 of 606 (5.4%)
j. 7-Day Pass >> 50 of 606 (8.3%)
k. 30-Day Pass >> 76 of 606 (12.5%)
l. 13 Rides Pass >> 15 of 606 (2.5%)
m. Youth 30-Day Pass >> 35 of 606 (5.8%)
n. BBB Annual Pass >> 0 of 606
o. EZ Pass >> 15 of 606 (2.5%)
p. Employer-provided pass >> 2 of 606 (0.3%)
q. Santa Monica College pass >> 9 of 606 (1.5%)
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--TRANSFER TRIPS WITHIN BBB AND TO/FROM BBB—
9. Thinking about 1-way trips on the Big Blue Bus, how often do you transfer from
Big Blue Bus to another Big Blue Bus (Blue to Blue)?
a. Never >> 223 of 592 (37.7%)
b. Rarely >> 92 of 592 (15.5%)
c. Sometimes >> 143 of 592 (24.2%)
d. Usually >> 86 of 592 (14.5%)
e. Always >> 48 of 592 (8.1%)
10. Thinking about 1-way trips on the Big Blue Bus, how often do you transfer to or
from Big Blue Bus to another bus or rail systems (Blue to/from Orange LA
Metro Bus, Green Culver CityBus, etc.)]
a. Never >> 201 of 592 (34.0%)
b. Rarely >> 98 of 592 (16.6%)
c. Sometimes >> 133 of 592 (22.5%)
d. Usually >> 104 of 592 (17.6%)
e. Always >> 56 of 592 (9.5%)
11. When you transfer to other transit providers (not BBB), do you use TAP Stored
Value to purchase the discounted $0.50 Regular or $0.25 Senior/Disabled
Interagency Transfer?
a. Yes >> 307 of 592 (51.9%)
b. No >> 84 of 592 (14.2%)
c. Don’t transfer >> 201 of 592 (34.0%)
12. What is the main reason you don’t use TAP Stored Value to pay for your transfer?
a. Not aware of the transfer discount >> 29 of 84 (34.5%)
b. I pay with a pass or passes on BBB and other transit agencies >> 44 of 84 (52.4%)
c. Because Metro isn’t charging a fare currently >> 9 of 84 (10.7%)
d. Because I don’t use TAP to pay my fare >> 2 of 84 (2.4%)
13. Are you aware that single rides cost less when using TAP or a mobile ticket than they did when
using cash?
a. Yes >> 459 of 592 (77.5%)
b. No >> 133 of 592 (22.5%)
--CONTACTLESS FARE PERCEPTIONS--
14. How has the contactless fare program (no cash use on board) affected you?
a. Negatively >> 28 of 592 (4.7%)
b. Somewhat negatively >> 54 of 592 (9.1%)
c. Neither negative nor Positive >> 468 of 592 (79.1%)
d. Somewhat positively >> 23 of 592 (3.9%)
e. Positively >> 19 of 592 (3.2%)
15. Please describe any positive or negative impacts you have experienced as a
result of the contactless fare program?
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16. The goal of contactless payments on buses is to move buses faster, make fare
payment more sanitary, and reduce the fare price for each ride. Understanding these goals,
should BBB return to accepting cash fare payments?
a. Yes >> 381 of 592 (64.4%)
b. No >> 142 of 592 (24.0%)
c. I don’t know >> 69 of 592 (11.6%)
17. If BBB goes back to accepting cash, will you start using cash again?
a. Yes, for most trips >> 50 of 592 (8.4%)
b. Yes, for some trips >> 162 of 592 (27.4%)
c. No >> 380 of 592 (64.2%)
18. What can BBB do to improve the contactless fare program?
--SMARTPHONE AND CREDIT ACCESS--
19. Do you have a smartphone?
a. Yes >> 512 of 592 (86.5%)
b. No >> 80 of 592 (13.5%)
20. Does your phone have a data plan?
a. Yes >> 498 of 592 (84.1%)
b. No >> 14 of 592 (2.4%)
c. No smartphone >> 80 of 592 (13.5%)
21. If your phone does not have a data plan, do you access the Internet on your phone using Wi-Fi?
a. Yes >> 10 of 14 (71.4%)
b. No >> 4 of 14 (28.6%)
22. Do you have a credit, debit, or pre-paid card to make purchases?
a. Yes >> 530 of 592 (89.5%)
b. No >> 62 of 592 (10.5%)
23. Would you be interested in using mobile ticketing (smartphone app) if you could load value to
your phone at the BBB Transit Store using cash?
a. Yes >> 363 of 592 (61.3%)
b. No >> 135 of 592 (22.8%)
c. No answer >> 94 of 592 (15.9%)
--REDUCED FARE OPTIONS--
24. Are you aware that there are reduced fares available for seniors (62+), people with Disabilities,
Medicare recipients, and/or youth?
a. Yes >> 519 of 592 (87.7%)
b. No >> 73 of 592 (12.3%)
25. Which of the reduced fares are you receiving, if any?
(Select all that apply)
a. Senior (62+) >> 66 of 550 (12.0%)
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b. Disabled/Medicare recipient >> 37 of 550 (6.7%)
c. Youth (5-18 years of age) >> 40 of 550 (7.3%)
d. Low-Income (LIFE) >> 8 of 550 (1.5%)
e. Not Receiving a discount >> 384 of 550 (69.8%)
f. I don’t know >> 15 of 550 (2.7%)
26. What reduced fares might you qualify for?
(Select all that apply)
a. Senior (62+) >> 6 of 457 (1.3%)
b. Disabled/Medicare recipient >> 2 of 457 (0.4%)
c. Youth (5-18 years of age) >> 4 of 457 (0.9%)
d. Low-Income (LIFE) >> 0 of 457
e. None of the above >> 423 of 457 (92.6%)
f. I don’t know >> 22 of 457 (4.8%)
27. Before BBB stopped accepting cash and tokens, did you receive the senior or
disabled/Medicare reduced fare by paying $0.50 with cash?
a. Yes >> 95 of 109 (87.2%)
b. No >> 14 of 109 (12.8%)
--LIFE PROGRAM--
28. Are you aware of the free or reduced fare available for low-income riders through the LIFE
program?
a. Yes >> 110 of 592 (18.6%)
b. No >> 481 of 592 (81.3%)
c. No answer >> 1 of 592 (0.2%)
29. Are you currently receiving the LIFE program reduced fare?
a. Yes >> 29 of 592 (4.9%)
b. No >> 77 of 592 (13.0%)
c. I don’t know >> 4 of 592 (0.7%)
d. No answer >> 482 of 592 (81.4%)
30. Are you eligible for reduced fares based on household income?
a. Yes >> 121 of 592 (20.4%)
b. No >> 440 of 592 (74.3%)
c. I don’t know >> 30 of 592 (5.1%)
d. No answer >> 1 of 592 (0.2%)
--DEMOGRAPHICS--
31. What is your gender?
a. Male >> 230 of 592 (38.9%)
b. Female >> 360 of 592 (60.8%)
c. Non-binary >> 2 of 592 (0.3%)
32. In which age category do you belong?
a. 14-17 >> 44 of 592 (7.4%)
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b. 18 to 24 >> 87 of 592 (14.7%)
c. 25-34 >> 106 of 592 (17.9%)
d. 35-44 >> 121 of 592 (20.4%)
e. 45-54 >> 117 of 592 (19.8%)
f. 55-61 >> 38 of 592 (6.4%)
g. 62 and Older >> 79 of 592 (13.3%)
33. Select the group(s) that best describe you
(Select all that apply)
a. Hispanic/Latino/Latinx >> 284 of 604 (47.0%)
b. White >> 148 of 604 (24.5%)
c. Black/African-American >> 103 of 604 (17.1%)
d. Asian/Pacific Islander >> 58 of 604 (9.6%)
e. Native American >> 0 of 604
f. Other >> 11 of 604 (1.8%)
34. How many people currently reside in your household?
35. What is your annual household income?
a. Less than $25,000 >> 98 of 592 (16.6%)
b. $25,000 – $34,999 >> 129 of 592 (21.8%)
c. $35,000 – $49,999 >> 112 of 592 (18.9%)
d. $50,000 – $74,999 >> 36 of 592 (6.1%)
e. $75,000 – $99,999 >> 8 of 592 (1.4%)
f. More than $100,000 >> 2 of 592 (0.3%)
g. Decline >> 207 of 592 (35.0%)
36. How proficient are you in English?
a. I speak little to no English >> 20 of 592 (3.4%)
b. I speak some English >> 153 of 592 (25.8%)
c. I speak English very well >> 419 of 592 (70.8%)
37. What is your home zip code?
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Packet Pg. 1334 Attachment: Title VI Fare Equity Analysis - December 2021 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Public Hearing
Big Blue Bus Fare Proposal
Department of Transportation
February 10, 2022
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Packet Pg. 1335 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Existing Fare Structure
Ride/Pass Type Regular Senior/Disabled/
Medicare (S/D/M)
Single Ride $1.10 –TAP only
$1.25 –Cash or Mobile
$0.50
1-Day $4 $1.50
7-Day $14 -
13-Ride $14 $6
30-Day* $50 $24
Annual Pass $500 -
*Youth 30-Day Pass available for $38, temporarily $19
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Packet Pg. 1336 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Contactless Fares* Pilot Purpose
1. Enhance customer and Motor Coach Operator safety, especially during pandemic
2. Assess operational and customer impacts:
•Expected faster boarding and travel times
•Financial impacts (allowing for lowering fares)
•Customer adaptability to contactless fares
•Impact on vulnerable customers
•Impact on customers without smartphones and/or data plans
3. Update fare structure and policies based on findings
*”Contactless fare:” Passenger makes no contact with farebox (i.e., no cash or paper tickets used) during boarding
3
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Packet Pg. 1337 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Contactless Fares Pilot Timeline
4
Feb 14, 2021
•Paper passes no longer
sold but still accepted
• New promo Single Ride
fare $1 Regular & $0.40
S/D/M for contactless
(TAP & mobile ticket)
Apr 18, 2021
•Paper passes no longer
accepted on board
July 12, 2021
•Cash & tokens no longer
accepted on board
• Only contactless fares
accepted
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Packet Pg. 1338 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Contactless Fares Pilot
Customer Support
•Distributed 3,500+ free TAP 30-Day passes
•Distributed 6,000+ freemobile ticket 30-Day passes
•Conducted 2,000+ hours of 1-on-1 outreach on buses & at bus
stops
•Reduced Single Ride fares to $1 Regular and $0.40 S/D/M
•Enabled riders to self-declare S/D/M eligibility for mobile ticket
reduced fare
•Promoted Low-Income Fare is Easy (LIFE) program, benefits only
available to TAP Card users 5
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Packet Pg. 1339 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Contactless Fares Pilot Customer Support
(cont.)
•Paper tickets could be exchanged for contactless fares
•Created a map of TAP sales locations in BBB service area
•Customer Service Agents assisted vulnerable riders with adapting
to contactless fares
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Packet Pg. 1340 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Contactless Fares Pilot Customer Support
(cont.)
•Bilingual outreach campaign communicating how to
access contactless fares
•New TAP ticket vending machines at RimpauTransit
Center & LAX City Bus Center
•Worked with SMC to
move bus passes to
contactless fares
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Packet Pg. 1341 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Contactless Fares Pilot Customer Fare Usage
8
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Packet Pg. 1342 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Customer Impacts
•Safer, more hygienic fare payment with
cash handling eliminated
•Faster fare payment: average customer
saved 12 hours of travel time annually
•Lower fares: savings on cash collection
passed on to customers; average
customer saved $76.50 annually
•Ready access to free & discounted fares
available only on TAP (e.g., LIFE)
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Packet Pg. 1343 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
BBB Operational & Financial Impacts
Category Impact
Bus Frequency Nearly 15,000 hours saved annually allows for higher service
frequency (adds 56 weekday bus trips); no added cost to BBB
Faster Travel Exclusively contactless fares save an average BBB patron 12
hours per year of waiting for others to board and pay their fares
Lower Fares No cash handling or farebox maintenance mean lower fares
Fewer Service
Disruptions
Not collecting bills & coins means fewer delays and contactless
fare collection rarely breaks down to interrupt service
Equity BBB policy of offering customers complimentary rides if they
don’t have contactless fares reduces barriers to service
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Packet Pg. 1344 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Concerns Regarding Contactless Fares
•Disenfranchisement –Challenges for unbanked, underbanked, or
those without smartphones & data plans
•Confusion possible for new customers, tourists, & non-regular
customers about obtaining contactless fares
•Inconvenience likely due to limited TAP card reload sites
•Anxiety in regular customers that contactless fares may not work
(no backup cash option)
•Left Behind -Customers without contactless
fares might be denied service
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Packet Pg. 1345 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
BBB Response to Contactless Fare Concerns
•Complimentary rides for customers without contactless fare with
signson every bus that no customer is refused a ride
•TAP vendor locations in service area checked & issues addressed
•LIFE applications now accepted at BBB Transit Store
•GoPass, offering free transit to K-12 students at
participating schools, adopted by BBB
•Onboard QR code for instant access to mobile
ticketing
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Packet Pg. 1346 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
BBB Response to Contactless Fare Concerns (cont.)
13
•Encourage BBB fare sales by offering commissions to TAP vendors
•Free rides to ages 5 & under (currently 4 & under) to close age gap
with GoPass and let more K-12 children ride free
•Keep free & discounted fare programs accessible by working with
social service agencies to expand awareness and participation
•Accept Metro 1-Day pass (Regular& S/D/M) to reduce
confusion in new customers, tourists, & other
non-regular customers
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Packet Pg. 1347 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Goals of New Fare Structure
Lower fares to support passengers &
increase ridership
Maintain improvements to safety &
travel time resulting from contactless
fares
Simplify fare structure
Align fare products with customer
preferences
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Packet Pg. 1348 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Proposed Fare Structure
Contactless Fares Only
(No Cash, tokens, or paper passes accepted on board)
Ride/Pass Regular S/D/M
Single Ride1 $1 $0.50
10-Ride1 $9 $4.50
30-Day** $30 $20
1 Free BBB-to-BBB Transfers within 2 hours for a one-way trip
** Youth 30-Day Pass for $38, temporarily $19
- Children 5 and under ride free
- Courtesy rides for customers who need to obtain TAP card or mobile ticket
- Interagency transfer policy set at regional level, currently $0.50 Regular and $0.25 S/D/M
15
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Packet Pg. 1349 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Existing vs Proposed Fare Structure
EXISTING
Cash, Paper Passes, Token, Contactless Fares
Accepted on Board
PROPOSED
Contactless Fares Only (TAP & Mobile Ticket)
No Cash, tokens, or paper passes accepted on
board
Ride/Pass Regular S/D/M Ride/Pass Regular S/D/M
Single Ride $1.10*/$1.25 $0.50 Single Ride
1 $1 $0.50
1-Day $4 $1.50 10-Ride
1 $9 $4.50
7-Day $14 - 30-Day** $30 $20
13-Ride $14 $6
30-Day** $50 $24
Annual $500 -
* $1.10 only on TAP, $1.25 Cash or Mobile Ticket
** Youth 30-Day Pass for $38, temporarily $19
- Children 4 and under ride free.
1 Free BBB-to-BBB Transfers within 2 hours
** Youth 30-Day Pass available for $19
- Children 5 and under ride free
- Courtesy rides for riders who need a TAP card or mobile ticket16
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Packet Pg. 1350 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Summary of Proposed Fare Structure Changes
•Allow only contactless fares on board (no cash, tokens or paper passes)
•End $1 Regular& $0.40 SDM Contactless Fare Pilot promotional fares
•Reduce Regular Single Ride fare from $1.10/$1.25 to $1.00
•Simplify fare structure by eliminating underutilized 1-Day, 7-Day, and Annual passes
•Change 13-Ride pass to new 10-Ride pass at $9.00 Regular and $4.50 S/D/M
•Add free BBB-to-BBB transfers within 2 hours one-way on Single Ride and 10-Ride passes
•Reduce price of Regular 30-Day ($50 to $30) and S/D/M 30-Day ($24 to $20) Passes, and make
permanent the sale price of $19 for Youth 30-Day Pass
•Increase age limit for free rides from “4 and under” to “5 and under”
•Offer courtesy rides to customers who need to obtain a TAP card or mobile ticket
•Accept Metro 1-Day Pass & Metro 1-Day S/D/M Pass
•Customers will have one year to use any discontinued fare products 17
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Packet Pg. 1351 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Other Proposed Fare-Related Policy Changes
•Develop a program to identify & address the fare needs of vulnerable
populations
•Work with partner agencies to ensure new fare policy does not cause
disenfranchisement and all riders have access to contactless fares &
eligible reduced fare options
•Pay commissions to retailers selling BBB
passes on TAP, encouraging retailers to
offer BBB products and expanding
access to contactless fares for unbanked
transit customers or those without
smartphones and data plans
18
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Packet Pg. 1352 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Title VI Fare Equity Analysis
•To studywhether proposed changes result in disparate negative
impacts on minority populations and/or disproportionate burden on
low-income populations
•Analysis found many of the proposed changes will benefit minority
& low-income populations due to generally reduced fare prices for
all groups
•Only elimination of 13-Ride Pass results in negative disparate
impact on minority populations; proposed replacement of 13-Ride
Pass with new 10-Ride Pass serves as mitigation to that impact
•Proposed changes do not result in a disproportionate burden on the
low-income population 19
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Packet Pg. 1353 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Timeline
20
February 10, 2022
Public Hearing
February 17, 2022
Close Public
Comment Period
April 12, 2022
Present Proposal
to City Council &
Request
Approval
June 22, 2022
Implement
Council
Direction
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Packet Pg. 1354 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Questions/Comments
21
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Packet Pg. 1355 Attachment: Proposed Fare Structure Public Hearing Presentation - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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17.02%119
18.17%127
22.17%155
19.89%139
18.74%131
4.01%28
Q1 Accept only contactless fare payments on board (i.e., no cash
accepted on board). People who use cash exclusively would reload their
TAP card at TAP ticket vending machines or nearby retailers. The following
cash fare options would be eliminated on board: Regular Single Ride
- $1.25 Senior/Disabled/Medicare Single Ride - $0.50 Regular Day Pass -
$4.00 Senior/Disabled/Medicare Day Pass - $1.50 7-Day Pass - $14.00
Answered: 699 Skipped: 16
TOTAL 699
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Doing away with the coin of the realm (cash money) is unfair to those without technology (yes,
there are still many humans on the planet NOT using or wishing to use technology, and very
many who find going cashless a way of cutting people off from one another and their
communities. Americans should have the freedom to choose when and whether to use cash
2/17/2022 2:01 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
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Packet Pg. 1356 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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money. As a public company serving the People of this nation, you have a responsibility NOT
TO LEAVE ANYONE OUT because all they wish to spend on their bus ride is actual American
dollars and cents for their public transportation.
2 There some people who don’t know how to use tap or get a tap card plus its easier to do cash 2/17/2022 10:07 AM
3 Need to have more TAP ticket vending machines outside of rail.2/17/2022 8:14 AM
4 Is very hard to load the tap card if you do not have a smart phone or computer 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
5 Being on limited budget, the fares are reasonable.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
6 While the contact-less fare payment is an improvement, there are not enough accessible TAP
kiosks to make the purchases necessary.
2/16/2022 2:18 PM
7 They all seem to be replaced with new options which raise less revenue. We need frequent,
reliable and safe bus service which cost money. I don't think anybody is not riding the bus
because of costs. They are not riding it because it is an unpleasant experience.
2/15/2022 3:42 PM
8 I think this is not a good idea. In my family, we did not like having to use the new cards. We
don't have anywhere close by to buy them, so it was a lot of trouble for us. We had to make
extra trips to metro train stops lots of times to put money on the cards. The stops are all far
from our home. It's upsetting to have to spend so much time to be able to use the bus. And
when you forget to go and put money on it that week or just don't have time to do it, you get
trouble from some of the drivers. We really didn't approve that you just made people have to
buy these cards that cost two dollars and not be able to use cash without giving anybody a
choice.
2/15/2022 2:52 PM
9 Gets folks on and off much faster 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
10 Your punishing disabled folks.2/15/2022 11:41 AM
11 Getting rid of cash is just wrong. All of us have had to pay as we go along, this is no different.
This is just more socialism. We will lose democracy if we lose being able to pay LonTinney
2/15/2022 9:50 AM
12 I think it's a great idea to have contactless fare, but there's always cases where digital
payments don't work. I've gotten on buses/trains and have had issues in where the payment
system didn't work correctly. It was always good to know that I had change on hand that I
could use in the event that this happened.
2/15/2022 9:24 AM
13 On time and the operator is a good heart to us .2/15/2022 9:01 AM
14 Free for under 21 and over 65 2/15/2022 7:57 AM
15 Positive for drivers and, potentially, for passengers waiting for the boarding process, but
possibly quite negative for visitors who don’t know the ropes or have ability to get a TAP card.
2/15/2022 5:07 AM
16 You should continue to accept cash for those who don't have a tap card. Tap cards don't work
all the time even when they contain cash.
2/15/2022 2:57 AM
17 Use TAP card now 2/15/2022 2:13 AM
18 Public transportation should be cheaper, not more expensive. Maybe if drivers made
EVERYONE pay instead of some of us, you wouldn't need to raise prices.
2/14/2022 11:31 PM
19 This would help bus operations stay on schedule. It would be helpful to have TAP ticket
vending machines and TAP retailers located near the busy bus lines and to promote the
locations via BBB website.
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
20 Though I use app-based payment, there are far too many users who don't have access to
contactless payment options. It's also a barrier for infrequent users or visitors. The
infrastructure just isn't there in LA-metro. I moved from NYC 2 years ago and there are many
ways to acquire Metrocards there but until there is a TAP vendor or machine at nearly every
stop, it remains more than just an inconvenience. Honestly, drivers are doing it best: I normally
see them give a free ride to someone who hasn't been able to get a contactless fare option.
2/14/2022 9:02 PM
21 cash slows down the boarding process. just make sure people pay their fares!2/14/2022 7:16 PM
22 Eliminating cash makes it harder to for people without TAP cards to jump on the bus at stops
along the way.
2/14/2022 7:14 PM
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Packet Pg. 1357 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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23 How will the none regular riders access tap cards in emergencies. People need to pay their full
share or else the public will have to pick up their tab.
2/14/2022 6:17 PM
24 I am a senior and anything pertaining to senior riders customers should stay the same.2/14/2022 5:43 PM
25 Some people don’t know where to buy tap card,2/14/2022 4:43 PM
26 Would only work if (frequently needed) free ride given to riders who (often tourists and
occasional riders) often don't have TAP cards or do have them but didn't realize pass or cash
value expired. Riders (including me) frequently help out when someone is short of cash or
exact change if we have the right change or dollar bills, but under this change we wouldn't be
able to do that and some riders would be stranded without transportation home. Vending
machines or retailers who sell TAP cards are certainly not always available at most bus stops.
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
27 No problem for regular users but could impact tourist use of these. options if new fares are an
issue to them.
2/14/2022 4:07 PM
28 Too many people skip paying, costing everyone. Non-cash fares generally means a safer ride.2/14/2022 4:00 PM
29 It would greatly effect our biggest revenue of tourism. Making it difficult for them with too many
issues of first not having a card, understanding how and where to purchase a tap card then the
correct domination of currency.
2/14/2022 3:50 PM
30 s/b easier for seniors & challenged riders to use BBB; some folks don't want stuff on their
smartphones
2/14/2022 3:23 PM
31 This will make lots of people's lives difficult. Some people prefer using cash for a reason, not
just cause they're somehow unaware that they can get a Tap card. They've got good reasons
they can't use anything but cash. You've already caused lots of trouble for people with this
change of refusing to accept cash. It's very hard for the average person to find anyplace to
load cash on this fare card. Lots of people just don't have time to go looking for these places in
the middle of the workday, when they're in a hurry to get to work or school cause they'll be late.
People are getting stranded now by your bus drivers even more often. It used to be just the
rare person who had no money, but now the bus drivers are refusing service to tons of people
who CAN pay. But they just refuse to take the cash and strand people. Also I'd seen plenty of
tourists and people new to LA who have no clue what's going on and why on earth they can't
pay cash. It's really ridiculous, cause there's no place at the bus stop for them to buy a ticket
or card with cash either. They're so confused, and it takes them such a long time to figure how
to buy a ticket with their phone.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
32 It will speed up boarding to not have people fumbling for change at the fare box.2/14/2022 2:12 PM
33 Not for me personally but I have senior relatives that visit often, for longer than a week and
take public transportation. Would be helpful it they can go to the BBB store to get the senior
card (while providing ID, of course) instead of having to apply for senior discount. Not all
seniors have a cell phone or capable of using cell phones to load tap or BBB mobile pass.
Accepting coins for seniors only or keeping the senior paper pass could be another option for
them.
2/14/2022 1:26 PM
34 Let’s leave it at $1 2/14/2022 1:23 PM
35 I approve of having a cashless pay system on the Santa Monica Big Blue Bus because I have
always used my tap card to ride the bus. However, I have bought two 7-day bus passes for
future use. When the BBB discontinues the weekly passes - can I get a refund for my two 7-
day passes?
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
36 I don’t think it is a good idea to totally get rid of cash payment on board. Some people need to
get on the bus and get somewhere important. Searching for a vending machine or retailer is not
always convenient or efficient.
2/14/2022 1:02 PM
37 Don’t have a TAP card. Don’t know where to load them. I have my fifty cents. Since BBB
doesn’t accept fares, I haven’t ridden the bus.
2/14/2022 1:00 PM
38 do not use Big Blue very much 2/14/2022 12:55 PM
39 I take the Big Blue Bus almost every day, and almost every day someone gets on who has
cash but no tap card.
2/14/2022 12:32 PM
40 Homeless people will have difficulty doing this.2/14/2022 12:27 PM
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Packet Pg. 1358 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
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41 This is an elitist approach to public transit. Tourists and infrequent riders deserve better than
the misguided concept of public transit for only those members of the public that have or get a
tap card. I am very opposed to totally cashless policies for public entities.
2/14/2022 12:24 PM
42 i dont normally pay with cash, but if i lose my wallet for whatever reason, it would be much
easier to get a dollar or two off of someone than to get four dollars, then find a place to buy a
tap card
2/14/2022 12:08 PM
43 simplifies fares 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
44 A day pass is a great option for visitors 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
45 Many people are working class and they rely on public transportation to get them to school
and/or work. Many of the Big Blue Bus stops are in residential areas or mixed use areas where
TAP vendors are non-existent. For example, many stops on Lines 9, 14, and 16 stop in
neighborhoods with no TAP vendors with the stops' radiuses. Big Blue Bus needs to realize
that by taking away on-board fares, they are discriminating many riders who do not have
immediate access to TAP vendors. The majority of bus riders are NOT tourists; they are
working class folks.
2/14/2022 12:05 PM
46 Not enough locations to buy or load a tap card 2/14/2022 12:04 PM
47 Must keep cash fares - necessary for free and easy access to transportation.2/14/2022 11:51 AM
48 Reason being is that I will constantly need to go to CTO to reload my Bruin TAP card for the
discounted co-pay. For some odd reason, I can't reload it online
2/14/2022 11:11 AM
49 although I use a tap card to travel on metro & BBB buses and have no problem loading value
onto my card, I can imagine for senior citizens or monolingual immigrants, managing a tap
card presents a formidable challenge, and so I think it will hinder access, not improve it.
2/14/2022 11:11 AM
50 For some people it is simply easier to use cash. Other people who might otherwise use a bus
for an occasional trip, won't do so if it requires anything other than depositing the cash amount
as they board.
2/14/2022 11:06 AM
51 Contactless fare is fine for me, but screws occasional riders & tourists- I’ve seen it.2/14/2022 10:56 AM
52 discourage people from riding the bus who will only be traveling for a short period of time, such
as visitors and those needing repairs on car; also lose of privacy since tap cards can be
tracked
2/14/2022 10:52 AM
53 You are denying service to those who aren't able to reload their TAP cards easily and giving a
negative impression of your service to those who might need to ride in an emergency (car
break-down, etc). Making it so complicated means they'll never ride again.
2/14/2022 10:41 AM
54 It is good for drivers not to deal with cash. Tourists may be put out not knowing where to get a
TAP card. There should be more places to get Tap cards for the tourists like at all major
hotels, etc.
2/14/2022 10:39 AM
55 Absolutely horrible. The point is to encourage people to use mass transit, not discourage it. If I
am with someone and wish for them to accompany me somewhere on the bus, just to try it,
there is no way to make that happen. Practically speaking, however, that doesn't matter as
BBB refuses to enforce its fare policy anyway. People get on the bus all the time, ignore the
protestations of the driver for not paying, and then take a seat. Bus drivers tell me that there is
nothing they can do, so they drives on. Perhaps if you were to enforce your own rules, you
wouldn't have to worry about charging children more money.
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
56 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
57 i have been using your Bus big blue all my life it has been good to me.2/14/2022 10:28 AM
58 For convenience of occasional, including tourists, users, cash fare should remain 2/14/2022 10:28 AM
59 I approve of contactless payments. But not of price rising.2/14/2022 10:27 AM
60 Too many options or changes is very confusing.2/14/2022 10:26 AM
61 Lower income people may not have away to process digitally.2/14/2022 10:17 AM
62 Not everyone can afford to reload a card. Also, what if I'm on the street and decide to jump on
a bus and don't have a tap card...what one do in this situation???
2/14/2022 10:16 AM
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Packet Pg. 1359 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
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63 It's handy to be able to use cash and not have to take an extra step.2/14/2022 10:14 AM
64 Some people who ride the bus are unaware that BBB is no longer accepting fares and some
may not know where to get TAP cards. It also seems that many vendors don't have TAP cards
in stock. If contactless fare payments are to go forward, customers need to know where to
obtain TAP cards & transit organizations need to be sure vendors they contract with have
these items in stock.
2/14/2022 10:12 AM
65 Speed up the boarding process, keep things running smoothly.2/14/2022 10:08 AM
66 A lot of people don't have TAP cards 2/13/2022 3:52 PM
67 Paying 50c for a senior is easy and takes one second. You want to force me to walk 2 miles to
DTSM then get a pic taken ($30?) then go to BBB office and give all my personal details just
to get a senior card. This is worse than communist Russia and must be unconstitutional and
illegal. The trouble is that the boss of BBB has computers on the brain and doesn't care how
much he imposes on seniors. I will never comply. I haven't used a BBB in a year. I'll walk or
drive but I'll never give me personal details just to get a card. This idea is bad, bad, bad for
seniors. Why not let us ride free and be done with it? One day the boss of BBB will be a senior
and the sooner the better!
2/12/2022 4:26 PM
68 It’s too complicated to buy fares online. Cash fares should be offered in addition to contactless
fare payment.
2/12/2022 11:03 AM
69 What "nearby retailers"? Where are these "ticket vending machines"?? I've never seen these
anywhere near BBB stops. My coworkers, friends and family who ride buses in SM haven't
ever seen them either. Only Metro rail stops have ticket vending machines; the BBB doesn't
provide squat to its passengers. Now your bus drivers don't sell fare either, don't accept cash,
and are rude to people over it or just leave folks stranded. You could have just installed better-
quality cash acceptance devices on the buses so there wouldn't be delays with it when people
get on. When friends and family came to visit me from out of town they'd often buy these
passes to get around the city, and the easiest way for them to pay is cash. They don't need
TAP cards that cost $2 or online accounts with BBB; they only come around maybe once a
year so they'd always forget to bring the card they bought last time or forget their account
passwords. Also a lot of bus riders are low-income people and new immigrants who often have
no access to credit cards. When they can find nowhere to buy bus tickets or passes with
cash, it can cause awful problems. Not everybody’s got smartphones to look up where to go to
buy them, and it’ll probably end up being too far from most bus stops anyway. I'm strongly
against this change. Trying to “eliminate” cash fares seems to me like you’re trying to
“eliminate” all the people who need to use cash from your buses.
2/11/2022 3:31 PM
70 Not all members of the community can navigate a contactless payment option.2/11/2022 2:30 PM
71 Not enough consideration given to the potentially unbanked or underbanked. Would encourage
a broad means-tested low-income fareless program and a longer-term investment in fareless
and prioritized service for the entire community.
2/11/2022 11:13 AM
72 regular fares are too high 2/11/2022 7:43 AM
73 Would be a Hassel to Riders who have cash, but no Tap Card & is hard to find one.2/11/2022 12:59 AM
74 Classist and makes it harder for those without smartphones 2/10/2022 10:07 PM
75 Two main massive issues: 1. The lowest income people in our community and the people who
rely on BBB the most often aren't able to get a pass for one reason or another. This would
disproportionately hurt the ridership that needs BBB the most. Providing courtesy fare to those
who don't have a TAP card is wonderful, but BBB should be doing everything possible to
encourage ridership, not construct barriers accessing public transit. 2. Tourists, and frankly
residents, will not and do not take the time to research how to get a TAP card and what the
procedures for it are. I looovee public transit, but it took over 2 months for me to get my card
when I moved here because it was so confusing how to find one, and which vendors were
reload only, which vending machines were in service, etc. Like I said in #1, it's just
constructing more barriers for riders, and tourists/residents will choose to drive or Uber. I have
not seen any real explanation for this change, and the COVID on cash thing has been
thoroughly debunked. Cash is dirty, but it doesn't transmit COVID. We also use cash for
transactions everyday, and I think it's reasonable for visitors and residents alike to expect their
public transportation system to accept this country's legal tender.
2/10/2022 9:49 PM
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76 Data from LA metro shows that more than half of riders on the system (which presumably has
a similar ridership to BBB) are low income, and cashless systems consistently disadvantage
low-income people.
2/10/2022 9:01 PM
77 Less contact the better.2/10/2022 8:59 PM
78 seniors need to use cash; TAP reloading locations not convenient 2/10/2022 8:43 PM
79 OK. I have seen the homeless and tourists have no clue on how to purchase tap cards or
where to go to do this. Many people refuse to get the app, don’t know how to get the app, don’t
have a cell phone, etc. Outreach should be conducted through signs on the bus, tourist hotels
and motels, OPCC and St Joseph’s. Done with brochures left at hotels and motels and OPCC
and St. Josephs. They should show a map of where rides can get help, info, and purchase
their tap cards.
2/10/2022 7:52 PM
80 I am a frequently rider. It'll help a lot.2/10/2022 5:30 PM
81 The fare sounds reasonable.2/10/2022 4:45 PM
82 Panic! Will there still be a senior/disabled fare?!!! Will my Senior TAP card still work?!!!2/10/2022 4:09 PM
83 This is very reasonable for us seniors 2/10/2022 2:26 PM
84 If cash is an option to pay the fare then utilize it ... Then all bases are covered to passengers 2/10/2022 2:14 PM
85 eliminate homeless and others who are unable to obtain tap card, reduce crowding 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
86 This is very confusing because they have already been eliminated on board 2/10/2022 2:02 PM
87 quicker movement to get on the bus 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
88 Who would pay in advance for a service that might not be used? Cash payment as you ride is
best for all especially seniors who vote!
2/10/2022 7:22 AM
89 I support it but the fare box should be kept operating all the time 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
90 Fares should be free to help environment, traffic, and low income people.2/10/2022 12:05 AM
91 I really like the contactless payment 2/9/2022 11:45 PM
92 I think that seniors and disabled should be able to pay cash because I see a lot more people
struggling with the tap card
2/9/2022 11:40 PM
93 Seniors should be able to use cash. Extremely hard to obtain and to keep up the tap card -
many elderly are limited to putting small amounts of cash on tap card at one time
2/9/2022 11:28 PM
94 Sometimes I’m running late or forgot to reload my TAP card and only have cash. I also feel
this would negatively impact people experiencing homelessness, or who might be less able to
navigate the sometimes confusing TAP card system. It would also limit transit options for out
of town visitors and make things less convenient.
2/9/2022 10:30 PM
95 I am a senior and have been enjoying the reduced senior fare. Previously I added the 13 ride
passes to my senior card, but recently I have been using the cash amount I have on my card
because it is actually a lower fare. Many days I would have used a senior day pass, but I was
unable to add both passes to one senior card. The clerk advised that each different day I used
my card, it would use the day pass, even though I was only using one ride on the bus.
However, the transfers will be helpful
2/9/2022 10:04 PM
96 This will make it difficult for those that don’t have or don’t understand how to use the tap
cards- even with some help to those people, some will not be able to figure out- this plan will
not make it easier for folks to ride the bus but harder. And who are those people? The elderly,
non English speaking, mentally challenged- the demographics that most need our help and
ease of use of public transportation-
2/9/2022 10:02 PM
97 Sometimes, people use cash to pay if they don't have a TAP card despite it being a burden.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
98 Seniors and the physically challenged ought to continue to be able to use cash. Many of us do
not have the wherewithal to download apps and it's easier for us to use cash for our fares.
2/9/2022 6:21 PM
99 I’m a senior and appreciate $.50 fares . I don’t know anything about tap cards; where to get
them; how much they cost, and why is tap cards a better solution;( to what problem?)
2/9/2022 5:47 PM
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100 TAP 'refill' locations are limited and inconvenient. Hard to track and remember how much is on
your card. In case of emergency or loss of TAP card this is a disaster waiting to happen for
lots of people stranding or otherwise making use of public transit impossible. i.e. I have
directed recent patients released from St. John's to the bus station, they had cash, but no
possible way to get a TAP card. CASH must be an option.
2/9/2022 5:14 PM
101 I am an occasional rider and like to be able to run over to my corner and jump on the bus using
change. I feel this change discourages riders like myself. If the driver offered to let me ride for
free, I might jump off , as I don't like breaking rules. I don't want to ride for free. That doesn't
feel right to me. I feel that this policy is also elitist and discriminatory. Not everyone has a
smart phone or a credit card or even a bank account. I don't understand how those who have
no transportation would get a tap card. My elderly mother could not. She's lucky to have family
to help, but that should not be a requirement. As long as we are still using cash in this world,
then the bus should accept cash. I also think it's not convenient for visitors to our city. I
understand that counting cash and dealing with cash is an expense for the bus company, but if
it's such as problem, just give the money to charity. Accept the cash and give it away.
2/9/2022 4:39 PM
102 I no longer live in the area but occasionally might need to take a Blue bus, transferring from a
Metro bus from the SF Valley. I have a TAP card for Metro only and would need to obtain one
from the Blue Bus.
2/9/2022 4:27 PM
103 .2/9/2022 4:08 PM
104 I don't like your no-cash policy. We don't have almost any credit or debit cards in the house,
and no time to find the very few places around where these cards are sold or can have money
added on them. We don't have time to go looking for them and go there weekly or more often.
They are not near our home and not anywhere we shop at or go to for any reason. It's been
very difficult for our family to not be able to use cash to ride the buses, and not be able to buy
passes on the bus and have nowhere else around to buy them either when we need to get on a
bus. We don't have the time to deal with these problems and these endless extra trips to
stores! Many other friends and family who ride buses have also been complaining that it's
causing them extra trouble and just making life difficult. Also some of us and our kids have
lost these cards, and then not only lost the money on them but we also have to pay 2 dollars
each time just to buy a new card with no value on it! We are on a tight budget and don't have
the money to keep buying plastic cards and giving you money for nothing.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
105 Some people simply do not have the time or cannot find the convenience to go to ticket
vending machines and buy TAP cards, so doing this would deprive those people of
transportation opportunities.
2/9/2022 1:41 PM
106 Generally good idea but negatively impacted by lack of outreach to those who dont already
have TAP cards (eg elderly, tourists). Also need to increase TAP-promoting infrastructure eg
more vending machines in highly-trafficked areas.
2/9/2022 1:24 PM
107 Not accepting cash will have a negative impact on vulnerable communities that do not have
access to contactless fares, those that have limited English proficiency and visitors that are
unfamiliar with the system.
2/9/2022 12:21 PM
108 the use of cash payments slows down the busses, especially at stops with high usage, which
results in worse service. in general I believe public transit should be free to the users to
encourage use of transit and non-auto transportation
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
109 Not enough vending machines nearby to be convenient.2/9/2022 9:56 AM
110 cash is needed for those who ride the bus only every now and then as well as tourists who
don't have easy access to TAP cards
2/9/2022 8:59 AM
111 Not everyone can get a tap card or load it.2/9/2022 8:12 AM
112 I use pay and go for almost everything and find it super convenient but I also see the use for
cash for time when we are running late and don’t have time to reload or use the machine
2/9/2022 8:10 AM
113 Although I am for it, visitors get on the bus who don’t have tap cards. Drivers let them on
anyway for the most part.
2/9/2022 7:58 AM
114 Good/bad - people can forget their cards or lose them and their phones, very easy to
ask/borrow $1.25 from a friend/coworker. Unless there are a lot more tap machines to purchase
a new one. Depends on the ultimate goal.
2/8/2022 8:18 PM
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115 Foreign visitors that are newcomers may have not heard of TAP cards.2/8/2022 8:08 PM
116 This sis the ONLY Bus line that does this and I see it is a huge inconvenience on others and I
see it
2/8/2022 6:06 PM
117 None whatsoever.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
118 Contactless payment does modernize the transit experience and makes it way easier to load
money and board the bus faster, but older residents and citizens are less likely to know about
these updates and how to use this new policy and feature.
2/8/2022 1:58 PM
119 It would be good to combine this with TAP Card readers at the rear doors to allow faster all
door boarding.
2/8/2022 1:51 PM
120 How do Tourist pay? How about only occational riders? Inconvienient way to charge Tap card.
Retail reload locations do not work. Seven Eleven locations need Tap card with barcode, but
Tap cards do not have barcode. I live in Marina del rey, nearest local Ralphs store tells me
machine to charge Tap card does not work and do not know when it will be fixed. So I have to
make inconvenient trips to DT SM to recharge at Rail station or Blue Bus store. There are too
few locations to charge Tap Cards. Seniors have too apply for Senior Tap card, which I
assume might be quite inconvenient.
2/8/2022 12:28 PM
121 It works well unless someone forgets their tap card or is only visiting the city.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
122 I've noticed that some people are still unsure about how to use TAP cards or how to obtain one
...
2/8/2022 10:16 AM
123 Need more stations to reload TAP card 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
124 Cash must be accepted at all times to increase access.2/8/2022 12:35 AM
125 Old people not savvy with technology …2/7/2022 11:37 PM
126 Not allowing cash fare creates a barrier to new ridership.2/7/2022 11:10 PM
127 More fast service 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
128 Paying exclusively by TAP card can be difficult for some people. It is NOT easy finding TAP
vending machines or retailers to load. That means having to make an extra trip. The new fare
suggestion seems expensive. Culver City is still $1.
2/7/2022 10:47 PM
129 Love that I can quickly and easily load up my app with bus fare vs. having to remember to fill
my TAP card at a station.
2/7/2022 9:58 PM
130 Ugh. I don't want to deal with a TAP card (whatever that is) just to hop on the bus. Why is a
damn dollar bill and quarter such a hassle to deal with? Worked fine for the last 50 years I took
the bus. You're going to kill causal / impulse usage. I mean, I remember bus tokens! Also, just
make the bus free!!!
2/7/2022 9:45 PM
131 Can't load up on bus?2/7/2022 9:10 PM
132 For someone who rides this line short distances and only slightly frequently, it is very difficult
to load my tap card because there are no stations nearby. I find being obligated to a smart
phone and an OUTSIDE app store (third party corporate supplier that collects personal data) an
imposition on my privacy. It really is inconvenient for me since I also only ride this line from
Manchester/Lincoln to Lincoln/83rd St. It is a very necessary trip though i ride this line further
up Lincoln or to the Green Line Station occasionally. The BBB is my go-to because other local
city lines literally run every couple hours to that area. It is far easier for me to just go in my
pocket and pull out a $1 bill and insert it into the machine.
2/7/2022 9:07 PM
133 Not everyone has a phone to use and if you forget your tap card you’re forced to repurchase a
new one. It may not be that high of a price but still an inconvenience we can avoid by allowing
cash.
2/7/2022 8:17 PM
134 If there was a way to refill tap cards with cash on the bus it would be 100% positive. People
want to use their TAP cards but if you don't take the train it can be a problem since there is a
day(s) long delay when loading it via the app.
2/7/2022 7:42 PM
135 A lot of elderly people and even some younger folks have trouble with contactless payment
methods. While convenient for those of us who use Apple / Samsung pay, it is not for those
who are less tech savvy
2/7/2022 6:54 PM
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136 There needs to be a way to reload tap cards online. And also to transfer institution specific tap
cards and passes to a phone.
2/7/2022 6:51 PM
137 I am a senior.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
138 I think older people still have issues with TAP card. Out of towner’s?2/7/2022 6:42 PM
139 Very difficult to eliminate cash as an option - if someone doesn’t have a card, not easy to
reload a tap card. Retail locations are not near many bus stops.
2/7/2022 5:21 PM
140 Some people only carry cash or if they forget their tap card and need to ride. Would be ideal to
have a cash option. TAP stations or not near by either.
2/7/2022 5:16 PM
141 Not everyone rides public transportation regularly, therefore not everyone has a tap card. And
also, a lot of passengers use that as an excuse to not pay a fare.
2/7/2022 5:14 PM
142 Please stop letting homeless people on for free 2/7/2022 5:09 PM
143 What if I didn’t know I didn’t have enough money in my tap card. Using cash sometimes can
be useful if I’m case.
2/7/2022 4:22 PM
144 Homeless people with no access to a Tap card. Makes it more difficult 2/7/2022 4:07 PM
145 inaccessible to people who don’t know how to reload (eg elderly) or people who are in an
emergency and don’t know where to get a new tap card or lost or forgot their tap card
2/7/2022 3:41 PM
146 Most LA people have no debit or credit cards, mendicity, b/c of Covid.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
147 Im not a daily rider, but I do get calls for meetings and events in sante monica. It may be
impossible to obtain a prepaid pass if my need to travel is immediate.
2/7/2022 2:54 PM
148 Discriminated against homeless people who don’t have access to wireless payments 2/7/2022 2:47 PM
149 I once had to walk 3 miles because I only had cash. The bus driver made me exit. I’m a senior
citizen. I didn’t know cash wasn’t accepted.
2/7/2022 2:30 PM
150 So what is the fare on a cash loaded tap card???? And what is the transfer fee ?2/7/2022 2:28 PM
151 Reloading a TAP card isn’t always accessible 2/7/2022 2:23 PM
152 It speeds up the process of collecting fee to ride the bus.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
153 Although I’m privileged enough to have a smart phone that I use to reload my tap card, I’m not
sure if this will make it more difficult for bus riders who may not have the means to reload their
tap cards easily and I haven’t seen tap card vending machines or retailers near BBB stops.
Just speaking from experience prior to realizing I could use the tap card on my phone’s wallet
2/7/2022 2:07 PM
154 As a senior, I already load my TAP card with Metro 30 day passes, since most of my travel
uses Metro. However, occasionally I might also use BBB --- Line 7 comes to mind as one I
may use most often --- so I generally preload sufficient value onto my TAP card to cover such
cases. So, nothing has really changed, as far as it might affect me.9
2/7/2022 1:54 PM
155 My kids are now using the Fareless TAP cards so cost is no longer an issue.2/7/2022 1:46 PM
156 This is a good idea but can be unfair if you don’t know that it’s in place.2/7/2022 1:45 PM
157 It’s very expensive ride for single use 2/7/2022 1:38 PM
158 Already use TAP 2/7/2022 1:35 PM
159 Without knowing specifically where those cards could be filled, I can’t comment.2/7/2022 1:30 PM
160 You should be fareless but if you’re not, you need to take cash because not everyone has a
phone/tap card.
2/7/2022 1:21 PM
161 The key to this change is how easily we will be able to load the TAP card.2/7/2022 1:17 PM
162 Please make it accessible for commuters to load money by providing more vending machines.2/7/2022 12:59 PM
163 This discriminates against people who don’t have access to a tap cards. Cash is still a major
payment with those of lower classes.
2/7/2022 12:58 PM
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164 I only use cash. Haven’t gone on Big Blue Bus since the change to contact less payments 2/7/2022 12:56 PM
165 Most ppl like the old school ways of things 2/7/2022 12:43 PM
166 Have to keep tourists in mind and provide easy ways for them to purchase a pass 2/7/2022 12:38 PM
167 The US is nota cash free economy. There are a million ways to get stranded with no public
transportation options.Not only that … You are demanding a fee to load my cashless pass that
I wouldn’t need to load if you would allow LEGAL TENDER. The passes are very difficult to
buy … not in sll stores, enlisted stores have no supplies, enlisted stores have restricted hours,
the transportation center is not open at times that are convenient for low income laborers. It is
difficult to read the meter to know how much money you have remaining on a card. There is
little distinction between the yes and no alert that a card generates on the ‘fare machine’ You
can only use your card for one person. There is no allowance for transfers. There
2/7/2022 12:37 PM
168 Not everyone has digital access via cell phone. A cashless society is restrictive in the
extreme and not in alignment with freedom of movement, expression or speech if money
counts as speech as in Citizens United giving the power of the wealthy political sway. Too
authoritarian and not democratic in my opinion.
2/7/2022 12:34 PM
169 Contactless fare payment is unnecessary and discriminatory to many groups, including the
poor, those without a smart phone, and foreign tourists who are seniors that have just arrived
and can't provide a photo ID and get a card during their stay in Southern California. Other bus
companies allow cash payments. This is a stupid change and should be eliminated. Allow
Cash Fare Payments !
2/7/2022 12:29 PM
170 Faster boarding 2/7/2022 12:24 PM
171 There needs to be payments in cash for the convenience of elderly and customers and those
without access to a TAP card
2/7/2022 12:13 PM
172 Contactless payments hurt vulnerable community members who rely on using cash, especially
those for whom public transit is their only available means of transportation.
2/7/2022 12:07 PM
173 Hassle when one runs out of tap card value, since it is impossible to keep track of easily. More
burdensome to obtain tap cards.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
174 Fare pay should include and support cash option. Fair should not increase at this time.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
175 Most people don’t have tap cards. Sometimes people who don’t use the bus need to, and they
should be able to just pay.
2/7/2022 12:02 PM
176 I prefer using cash/coin for the bus & don't go on routes that have kiosks, etc to reload tap
cards
2/7/2022 11:57 AM
177 Always think about the marginalized communities. There are people who may not have loading
stations nearby but can have easy access to cash.
2/7/2022 11:53 AM
178 Transit should be free. We should raise taxes to fund it. However, not allowing people to pay
with cash is unfair to people who don’t have debit or credit cards or a bank account. This
policy is anti-homeless.
2/7/2022 11:52 AM
179 There must be retailer options 2/7/2022 11:50 AM
180 It's OK for these fares to implement 2/7/2022 11:43 AM
181 What happens if someone lost their TAP card? Or if their phone dies?2/7/2022 11:37 AM
182 I should be able to use Apple Pay or a wallet credit card to board the bus rather than cash or a
TAP card. Tap cards are also problematic because you can’t tap twice for a family member
and they are pieces of plastic with an expiration date.
2/7/2022 11:35 AM
183 Big Blue bus is not lowering the fare prices. From the looks of this price chart, the company is
considering raising the fair price which isn’t good for my weekly budget.
2/7/2022 11:32 AM
184 We should be encouraging riders not charging them more when they already have to deal with
the violent unstable riders! Their should be buses every ten minutes! You shouldn’t have to be
waiting more than that for a bus.
2/7/2022 11:32 AM
185 Lots of new students use cash - cash should be accepted on BBB (or allow passengers to
create a mobile tap account on the bus or allow contactless card payments?)
2/7/2022 11:27 AM
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186 I like the single way past rate at $1.00 lol 2/7/2022 11:23 AM
187 For people who get paid mostly in cash, it may be difficult or inconvenient to reload TAP cards,
especially as most bus stops do not have a ticket machine.
2/7/2022 11:21 AM
188 not everyone has access to a phone/smart device. say someone’s phone were to die at night
after a long day and they had the cash but couldn’t board the bus. I think this would only work
if the vending machines were widely available and placed at almost every bus stop
2/7/2022 11:19 AM
189 I like the contact less system 2/7/2022 11:17 AM
190 Cash-only users may be unhoused or low-income and it may be hard for them to obtain a TAP
card….this may hurt their ability to gain mobility via the bus system. It would not affect me
personally as an individual.
2/7/2022 11:10 AM
191 An increase in fares would not be good at this time. Remember we are still in. Pandemic!2/7/2022 11:10 AM
192 Multi-riding made more affordable, especially for doing one’s important errands 2/7/2022 11:10 AM
193 Some seniors live alone and have difficulty using vending machines especially seniors who
don’t speak English.
2/7/2022 11:07 AM
194 One of the main routes for BBB is the 3 and Rapid 3. Customers coming from the airport to
Santa Monica do not have a TAP- accessible machine to issue a TAP card or a retailer to
purchase and reload. If you are going contactless then you should model after the NYC Metro
and accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay and tap-to-pay NFC debit and credit cards.
As a lure to use TAP only offer free transfers from BBB to BBB with that platform.
2/7/2022 11:04 AM
195 I am elderly & cannot get a tap card. Bring back the cash option. Otherwise no go blue 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
196 Would speed things up, however it would also be good to have more TAP vending machines
and make the locations easier to find.
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
197 People (including me) do not always have access to other forms of payment than cash and
there are not enough tap loading spots around to be a guarantee that you can ride when you
need to—having more options is always better than fewer when you need to get somewhere
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
198 It would be great because having less money on you will promote less robbery’s but on the
other hand most seniors pay in cash or coins and can’t walk to tap vending machine.
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
199 I think this would be bad if it doesn’t come paired with a courtesy free ride.2/7/2022 11:02 AM
200 Not everyone has ease of access to Tap card stations nor do they have adequate
online/internet access to hear about or set up contactless payment.
2/7/2022 11:02 AM
201 For periods when COVID is not an issue, customers should be able to pay with cash for all
single ride options. Having to buy and load a TAP card is inconvenient and confusing (metro
fare is $1.75, while Big Blue Bus is $1.25…what happens to the remaining 50¢?). Months into
contactless fare, I still regularly see riders try to pay with cash and they’re sometimes turned
away. Sometimes they plead with drivers to no avail. And of course, this policy is most likely
to burden seniors and low income riders (both groups Big Blue Bus should be especially
considerate of).
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
202 Much the same as now- is the 7 day pass 7 consecutive days? Or any 7 days with in a
month?
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
203 a lot of old people and immigrants and homeless use the bus and cannot do without cash 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
204 Limiting fair to tap cards only is incredibly ableist. Not everybody can regularly get to loading
stations nor do they have the internet connection necessary to do so online. Many different
people use the bus for a variety of reasons. We need to be making our transit system more
accessible, not less so.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
205 I don't normally use cash, I use a TAP card already, but it would be nice to have this option. I
imagine tourists would need cash option too. Also there needs to be easier ways to load the
TAP card. My phone does not support any mobile TAP card option.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
206 Tap card machines on busses don’t always work. The transit app has recently become really
unreliable. Which then bus drivers disrespect you. Some are kind and literate they understand
the system doesn’t always work, phones die, etc. and then others are hateful like you are
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
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trying to pull over on them. I took a bus where the transit app said try again later.I showed the
driver and kept trying it drained my battery. It was late at night. I told her I had. To transfer to
another bus to get home. She said don’t worry just tell the driver that you were on the 12 and
that your phone died. It was the last 1 of the night. I told the driver, his entire demeanor
changed. He waved me by angrily and said under his breathe to get a tap card. It’s passive
aggressive, rude and not helpful for either party.
207 It is not convientient to have to use contactless payment, when not everyone has appropriate
smartphones, and tap cards are difficult so fine and reload in many areas, as well as more
waste because tap cards often get misplaced and need to be repurchased. Many lower income
people also find this very inconvenient and prefer paying with change and cash.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
208 If you're going to eliminate cash payment, you need to give bus drivers absolute authority to
waive fares without consequence or question, and in doing so, you're still opening up a can of
worms, as those who should be or are denied boarding for behaviorial issues will draw
comparison to those given a pass. Lets give it a try. But whatever you do, do not adopt stupid
Big-Blue-Brother tactics and require ID or electronic transaction measures that effectively ID
passengers, like proof-of-vaccine QR code, phone app, etc.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
209 There are people who are unable to use TAP machines/online reload due to disability, language
barriers or financial difficulties. At the very least, cash should be accepted for single rides.
2/7/2022 10:57 AM
210 Some people would rather pay with cash ....especially the sinors and people that don't speak
English!!
2/7/2022 10:56 AM
211 It seems like is a clever way to deny homeless people the ride, yet they usually just walk in
and don’t pay anyway. I don’t blame the driver, what’re they gonna fist fight the homeless guy?
I’ve seen that almost happen many times. This will and has affected the poor and elderly as
well. You need a smart phone to ride the bus.
2/7/2022 10:53 AM
212 The assumption everyone is tech savvy and has the time and skill to reload tap cards is
obnoxious and elitist.
2/7/2022 10:52 AM
213 This is not an inclusive practice.2/7/2022 10:51 AM
214 I’m not sure if cashless should be an option for those that do not know how to obtain a
contact-less method of riding. Unless BBB figures out a way to make obtaining TAP cards as
accessible as possible, there should be multiple ways to pay for getting on the bus. Also
contactless payment wouldn’t reduce bus lateness, there are other strategies for that (i.e.
increasing the number of buses that run)
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
215 I use the bus occasionally so must use cash as senior will not be able to use tap or prepaid
ticket
2/7/2022 10:50 AM
216 Rates should not be raised for Disabled 2/7/2022 10:49 AM
217 Horrible, horrible idea. This is going to cause bus drivers to have to turn away people who
desperately need to take the bus to go where they need to go, and they can’t just because
they don’t have a TAP card. I can just picture people on a daily basis being frustrated that the
BBB doesn’t take cash anymore, and if there is no machine around them to mint a TAP card,
they’re completely out of luck. The fact that there isn’t some sort of plan in place to deal with
people who have cash and no TAP card is a problem. If there were more TAP machines
around, I would support the idea more. This might cut back on homeless people taking the bus
which would be nice, but at the same time I don’t think it would affect it.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
218 It could be inaccesible to individuals who don’t have access to technology due to financial or
other constraints
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
219 Make it free 2/7/2022 10:47 AM
220 I think this makes things more efficient. However, I think it would be nice if there is an way to
pay for 2+ people, if needed.
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
221 I suspect this will effect tourists and the homeless population the most.2/7/2022 10:45 AM
222 Sometimes people have only cash in an emergency, and need to get somewhere via bus.2/7/2022 10:44 AM
223 Eliminating cash fares makes Big Blue Bus less accessible to people who might not have
access to a TAP card.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
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224 Increasing from $1 to $1.25 would hurt me…Instead of increasing the fare you should start
enforcing payment for the current fare. Half the people that get on the bus don’t pay/tap.
Drivers just let them on. Start enforcing riders to pay the current instead of increasing the price
for those of us that actually do pay the fare when we ride.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
225 elderly are less likely to have contactless methods unless otherwise assisted. to help people
switch to contactless you need to include an incentive.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
226 Unless a tap card machine is nearby. In general I'm on mobile but I am concerned about low
income and people with uncharged phones.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
227 $4 regular day pass too expensive 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
228 I worry that removing cash payment on board will make it harder for some elderly riders to
access BBB.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
229 Cash is important for people who may not have access to a tap card but still need to ride the
bus (IE unhoused people). I understand the move to card only, but it is a matter of equality that
we keep BBB accessible to everyone, including unhoused people.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
230 Angry! Many canceled busses sometimes I wait an hour or two for a bus! Busses are filthy,
filled with homeless who ride for free!
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
231 No convenient location for me to reload with cash, and online reloading isn't instant, which
creates problems. I used to be able bridge these issues with cash, but that's not an option.
Some drivers are kind and give courtesy rides, others use it as an opportunity to be bully
passengers.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
232 DO NOT GET RID OF CASH. THIS IS WRONG!2/7/2022 10:42 AM
233 I’m broke lmao.2/7/2022 10:41 AM
234 This proposal would use of BBB by occasional riders or visitors.2/7/2022 10:41 AM
235 I really think you need to do a 14-day pass for people that are disabled at a discount. And
possibly look at doing free fare off peak hours to encourage ridership and and boost ridership
numbers so big blue bus can get more funding. This could also help eliminate crowds on buses
making a more practical and pleasant service.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
236 Contactless payment is important for a public health issue, but there are difficulties for bus
riders to find TAP kiosks to pay for fare.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
237 At this point Rider should have a TAP card or the download on their phones. It is extremely
frustrating paying for fare and seeing bus drivers allow people without the tap card or download
continue to ride on the bus for free. It is a continuous Observation. And really not fair but I
have to get to work whatever.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
238 I don't always have mo. It is easier to be able to use cash. ney on my tap card and often my
credit cards are maxed out.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
239 It's made the rides much safer, less transient people cursing, throwing things and screaming at
everyone...
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
240 It would be great if we can add money to our tap cards on the blue bus itself. I’m always far
away fm a tap vending machine. I normally have to load fm taptogo.com & sometimes it loads
in asap but other times it takes a few days
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
241 I worry that this action would negatively affect homeless people and elderly people who may
have difficulty tracking or refilling a TAP card. If this action is taken, I think it will be essential
to have very high-quality community outreach about it and ensure bus operators are trained to
kindly and patiently inform riders who want to use cash as to how to get or refill a TAP card,
including the closest location where they can do so. The TAP card machines should ideally be
built into the bus stops so that people never have to go far to be able to pay.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
242 I use Big Blue Bus infrequently, when I go into that area: paying cash is significantly easier
then having to track down where to obtain a senior BBB TAP card, how/where to load it, how
long the fair on the card remains valid, et al.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
243 sometimes I don't have money in the bank to refill my tap card, but I have cash. Sometimes I
forget to refill my card, but I have cash. Some people don't have bank accounts, or don't know
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
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how to use apps i e. older people, low income people, or immigrants.
244 Senior day pass should be available On a tap card. Maybe after the third ride it should be
automatic. There should be a senior seven day pass too.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
245 Raising the fare and reducing payment options doesn’t seem like an improvement to service.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
246 Some riders (tourists, occasional riders, low income people who can’t afford to tie up cash on a
card) will not have access to public transportation.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
247 Discourages people who are unfamiliar with the system from just getting on a bus and paying
onboard. Disproportionately negatively impacts low income people who use cash.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
248 My senior tap card doesn’t load remotely. No one has helped. The lack of a cash option targets
people without internet, smart phones or access to non existent help. There’s a reason the
only people who take the bus are those with no other options
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
249 Youth single fares and youth day passes 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
250 More expensive for no incremental increase in valu or service 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
251 This option should not be completely eliminated because our elders and those with disabilities
do not have easily and readily access to machines or tickets. This would also be inconvenient
given people who do not have access to electronic devices.
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
252 The occasional tourist or first time rider might not be aware they require a TAP card or mobile
card to ride the bus and the driver always kicks them off resulting in them missing their ride.
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
253 Don't know where nearby machines are 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
254 There aren't machines at every stop so you leave people stranded if they don't have a TAP
card.
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
255 Some people may only have cash and don't know where to go to fill their tap card.2/7/2022 10:36 AM
256 Prefer lowest market senior and Medicare rates possible 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
257 How people pay to board has little impact on me as a rider. I also know the current structure
and as long as you accept old guy TAP cards, I'm good.
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
258 Allow passengers to pay with fare with cash and change. TAP cards and bus tickets are
convenient but cause waste around the city.
2/7/2022 10:35 AM
259 Faster boarding times, and I suspect drivers will also allow more free rides 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
260 Should be allowed to pay cash especially when SM is a tourist area!2/7/2022 10:35 AM
261 Why do you punish seniors with fixed income?2/7/2022 10:35 AM
262 It is not always easy to reload a tap card so this may limit some potential riders 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
263 public transportation should be free and i do not support the raising of fares.2/7/2022 10:33 AM
264 Hard to reload TAP cards when you're an LA, not SM resident 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
265 Tap is a pain to load and difficult for seniors and tourists 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
266 The technology for contactless is limited to the TAP card and not true contactless, as in being
able to directly pay a single fare with a contactless card or smart device. Until the contactless
ability is broadened, eliminating cash fares are not “fair.” Suppose a customer has come in
from out of town and does not have a TAP card and cannot get one because the machines are
few and far between from a pedestrian standpoint. If they can’t immediately use their smart
device, they are locked out of the public transit because they don’t have the card and the bus
doesn’t take cash.
2/7/2022 10:33 AM
267 Cash options eliminated?2/7/2022 10:33 AM
268 I would lower the single ride to $1.00 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
269 This is a major extra burden for people who have to use cash, who tend to be more time-
limited to begin with.
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
270 Contactless will be inconvenient for the tourists, as they dont know where to get a tap card 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
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271 I feel bad for older people who don’t know the policy or how to use contactless fares and get
rejected on the bus
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
272 Concerns about access to TAP ticket vending machines for folks who exclusively use cash.2/7/2022 10:32 AM
273 I've seen new potential Riders turned away because they didn't have a TAP card. This turns
people off to using public transportation. There should be an allowance for people who don't
understand yet, or people who are just trying to catch a bus for the first time
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
274 Keep Single day ride to $1 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
275 It’s just very inconvenient and kind of exclusive to homeless people because now they have to
buy a tap card on top of the fare. Also people always lose their tap cards. Please just let us
use dollar bills again. I hate this new policy so much.
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
276 Tourists will not be able to use the blue Bus 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
277 Contactless payments while they improve efficiency of collecting fares negatively impact low
income and technology averse riders. Any push for contactless payment should be
accompanied by ROBUST education/informational programs to ensure all riders understand
how to pay and reload fares. For bus riders there often ISN'T a nearby tap reload station, so
reloading online becomes a necessity.
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
278 I like contactless payment via the app or tap card. But what about the elderly who I’ve
frequently seen catch the bus. They might not have the education or access to reload a tap
card online or in store.
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
279 I use the mobile app and at times I have problems with purchasing a ticket.2/7/2022 10:31 AM
280 Not everyone has access to cards this is segregation of the lower class 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
281 Sometimes Tap cards don’t work properly. Not being able to use cash may prevent some
people from riding.
2/7/2022 10:30 AM
282 I have access to contactless payment methods for my phone but it seems inaccessible for
people who have to reload cards. Vending machines are not at every bus stop.
2/7/2022 10:30 AM
283 If my phone is dead, I can’t pay. There also aren’t enough card refill stations close enough to
bus stations for this to make sense.
2/7/2022 10:30 AM
284 Some people don’t have immediate access to fare reloading machines. Also, this may
negatively impact disabled or elderly people who might have trouble navigating the TAP
reloading process and prefer the ease of using cash.
2/7/2022 10:30 AM
285 I think people should have the option of paying on board too 2/7/2022 10:30 AM
286 Cash helps especially for visitors/forgetting card/accessibility 2/7/2022 10:28 AM
287 Unless there are many locations to load or reload the tap card, this will cause a hardship for
many.
2/7/2022 10:14 AM
288 Just thinking of tourists/general public - make sure they are informed of these changes. I think
it might make the process faster and people will just ride, tap and go.
2/7/2022 10:12 AM
289 Persons who are homeless might not be able to access a tap card/contactless payment 2/6/2022 9:54 PM
290 I think it might be difficult for some people to get a tap card and reload. It will also cause
delays if people fo not realize that cash fares are no longer an option.
2/5/2022 9:35 AM
291 Faster 2/5/2022 7:26 AM
292 Since these contactless changes have been in place for several months already, I have not
had a problem, as a senior, using my Tap Card.
2/4/2022 2:41 PM
293 Contactless fare payment is safer for everyone who rides and the bus driver. It is also faster
process than riders paying cash.
2/4/2022 7:47 AM
294 Banning cash payments would make it harder and less convenient to ride the BBB. There are
not TAP card vending machines at each station, and I do not always have a TAP card on me. I
would just avoid the bus completely if this change were to go through.
2/3/2022 7:41 AM
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295 Contactless payment does speed things up, except when an unknowing passenger boards with
only cash. When drivers have to explain the fare method, it either slows down the boarding, or
could distract the driver in traffic. These customers often have the cash fare on hand, so why
not accept it?
2/2/2022 9:23 PM
296 You don't provide easily accessible machines where people could buy your new tickets with
cash, so many people cannot buy your tickets now. Lots of people only have cash available.
Many kids in my community who regularly need to ride the bus are way too young to have
credit or debit cards and don't have smartphones either.
2/2/2022 4:27 PM
297 Smoother operation on the bus, not creating delays because passengers don't have enough
coins.
2/2/2022 2:59 PM
298 Improves service. Some abuse contactless & always expect courtesy ride.2/2/2022 10:13 AM
299 There may be more heated interactions for the drivers.2/2/2022 9:53 AM
300 Not everyone has a TAP card, can get one easily, or can load fare on it easily. TAP ticket
vending machines are mainly at rail stations or large bus stops/depots, if you don't go to a
specific store (and once again, where are the stores?).
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
301 not all people have TAP card 2/1/2022 12:03 PM
302 If we want people to ride the bus make it totally free 2/1/2022 10:21 AM
303 The card machines are only in very few places, and most people require public transportation
to even get to any of them; which they can't do because they are now not allowed to pay for
fares with cash. Not everyone has credit cards to pay for phone passes or reload a tap card
online, and not everyone has a smartphone anyway. Additionally, the tap cards cost money
themselves, which is unfair; people lose such things very frequently, particularly children, the
elderly and low-income individuals with overwhelmingly busy lives. It's unfair to be penalizing
these groups more than anyone else, which it would if they have to keep paying for new cards
when they have so much less income. This is going to make accessibility to public
transportation much harder for children, students, the elderly, and poorer people; all groups that
ironically need to use public transportation much more than the credit card and smartphone
carrying adult middle-class well-paid people who seem to be the only ones this policy change
will benefit. If you so insistently wish to implement a no-cash policy on your buses, your
agency has a moral obligation to provide machines at EVERY SINGLE BUS STOP where any
customer can easily purchase the appropriate tickets and pay with cash.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
304 This is a positive change for most of us, but would hurt the most vulnerable people among us
(the poorest have no smart phone, people with mental difficulties that can't plan ahead or
understand how to navigate the TAP system, etc.) Put simply, it could prevent the people who
need it most from getting aid or medical care.
1/31/2022 9:52 PM
305 Tourists do not have tap cards 1/31/2022 2:43 PM
306 It works for me. But think of the one time use people. Or tourists. You can no longer just “ hop
on” the bus
1/31/2022 1:22 PM
307 If you can't reload by phone on an app, you should take cash.1/31/2022 12:25 PM
308 Many people have to ride the bus in an emergency (ie, their car breaks down, their car is in the
shop, someone has their car) without cash option they are stuck without transportation.
1/31/2022 12:14 PM
309 Not taking cash is a terrible idea and makes it more difficult for underprivileged people to ride
the bus. It also makes it difficult for people who don’t regularly ride the bus to do so in an
emergency.
1/31/2022 12:10 PM
310 You need to allow cash reloading of TAP cards on board. You need to provide TAP cards on
board.
1/31/2022 10:54 AM
311 While it has not affected me as I regularly use a TAP card, I’ve seen and heard senior citizens
struggle with getting access to the bus because getting the reduced fare for them involves
going to specific offices and waiting for a TAP card in the mail.
1/31/2022 8:42 AM
312 YES simple, tap cards great. Bus driver could hand out tap card with one ride and location
address to add funds to avoid free rides. Senior/Youth simple, 1/2 price, 50 cents ride.
Senior/Youth 30 day pass for $15. Regular pass $30.
1/30/2022 9:24 PM
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313 Visitors from out of town won't have a TAP card. (Though if proposal #2 goes into effect, that
wouldn't be a problem, I guess.)
1/30/2022 1:41 PM
314 Many of your riders will be unable to conveniently use TAP cards, Many homeless persons live
in Santa Monica. Some of them have mental problems. Some of them have logistical problems
which would prevent them from getting a TAP card, easily. Many of your riders who do have
homes are not sophisticated in using TAP cards. This includes both mentally impaired
persons, and non-mentally impaired persons. Santa Monica has many car maintenance
facilities, and earns a lot of tax revenue from these facilities. These facilities include new car
dealerships which have service departments. Your adjacent service area in Los Angeles also
has similar car maintenance facilities. Drivers will want to drop their car off for maintenance,
and will not normally have a TAP card to take the bus home. Many drivers wreck their cars in
accidents, and need to take the bus home, unexpectedly. They are not likely to have a TAP
card with them. Route # 3 serves national travelers, and international travllers at Los Angeles
International Airport. Someone who lives in New York or London, who visits Santa Monica is
not likely to have a TAP card. If the passenger is visiting from a country where English is not
the main language, the passenger will have a difficult time figuring out TAP card instructions. I
live a block from a Metro subway station. I can easily refill my senior citizen TAP card up with
any type of fare and/or passes. However most people in your service area do not live near a
Metro train station, and cannot fill up their TAP card as easily. Most people cannot use a
vending machine at their neighborhood train station to check the status of how much fare is on
their TAP card.
1/30/2022 12:38 PM
315 Have noticed confused tourists boarding with only cash; drivers have just waved them on.1/29/2022 9:52 AM
316 What about tourists unfamiliar with the TAP cards? There must be tons of them!1/28/2022 1:52 PM
317 I'm concerned about the number of Homeless persons who ride the Big Blue Bus for free! It
poses a health risk for the other riders.
1/28/2022 1:13 PM
318 For persons visiting Santa Monica, the occasional rider or the person who needs to
expectantly needs to catch a bus now puts an onerous to find a place to purchase a pass. It
would no longer be, "I can catch a bus". Now an extra step has been introduced in order to
ride. The other issue is for those who are on a cash basis, will have to visit a physical building
to get TAP card. Not everyone has a credit/debit card.
1/28/2022 11:34 AM
319 You are not allowing tourists or occasional users to use your service. I am totally against
having people have to buy a month pass or find out how to get a tap card and fill it. We should
be encouraging bus usage, not discouraging it.
1/28/2022 10:57 AM
320 Older folks aren’t as hip with technology 1/28/2022 10:25 AM
321 It is the same price as we are paying right now?1/28/2022 6:49 AM
322 Many reasons to take the bus, but sometimes it's unexpected, and accepting cash allows
people to travel even without planning ahead. A slightly higher cash fare compared to TAP fare
can encourage TAP card use, but allowing the option is important.
1/27/2022 11:35 PM
323 Not everyone wants to use a TAP Card or mobile app, especially certain people who aren't tech
savvy nor have a credit card
1/27/2022 10:05 PM
324 I don’t agree to go completely cashless because many tourists catch BBB #3-R3 from and to
LAX, so most of them get on the bus and don’t pay the fare. While riding the bus when the
cashless period started I saw so many passengers not paying and that is not fair for hard
working individuals like myself barely getting by paying our fair. One time during the summer a
lady operator embarrassed me in a bus full of customers because I was .50 cents short and
demanded that I pay the rest of the fare or I would have to get off the bus, luckily I saw my co-
worker and he gave me a dollar. I’ve seen my bus operators refuse services especially to the
homeless customers.
1/27/2022 9:57 PM
325 Makes using bus more difficult. Visitors using buses don't have cards.1/27/2022 8:17 PM
326 Some people use cash because they don't know where to get a TAP card or they simply don't
want one.
1/27/2022 7:15 PM
327 Offering only contactless payments without accepting cash would translate to an exclusion of
our neighbors experiencing homelessness. There are also not enough options to buy tickets or
charge the TAP cards. In addition, the TAP app is completely useless as you have to make
1/27/2022 5:38 PM
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the purchase with an unrealistically long advance time. None of these things improve the
already not-great public transportation options in Santa Monica
328 Faster boarding 1/27/2022 5:34 PM
329 The issue with this is forcing people who prefer to use cash to only use TAP and forced them
to either go online or wait in line at a retailer to reload to a TAP card that can be lost or stolen
at any time. Because of this, only the base fare should be kept for on-board payments going
forward.
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
330 I myself have many Tap cards although they’re all empty. If I can reload online fine but I think
we still need to always take cash (with no change).
1/27/2022 4:54 PM
331 It's easier for everyone, but things happen when a wallet or purse is stolen... perhaps that
person doesn't have enough money or time to go to a vending machine and purchase a TAP
card.
1/27/2022 4:53 PM
332 Should Perhaps Consider People Who need to Ride without TAP Card or Phone? Not Sure?1/27/2022 4:11 PM
333 Everything but the 7 day pass my brother a student and uses during the week to and from
school
1/27/2022 2:55 PM
334 Some people can’t get tap cards now I know you could go to a train station or the metro store
down at 4th but for the people who can’t travel it’s a hassle. On top of that some people who
ride the bus are older and don’t have smart phones and I’ve seen drivers ask for a mobile
ticket yet these older people have old flip phones and how do you expect them to pay for a bus
fare or expect them to go and get a tap card when they can’t travel without the bus.
1/27/2022 2:42 PM
335 The TAP pass program has been around long enough to where it is generally accessible to
most regular users. There is also a mobile app, which mitigates the issue of tourists. It might
be helpful to dedicate additional public outreach to seniors who may not be as comfortable
using technology (e.g. TAP card distribution for the first 60 days following elimination).
1/27/2022 2:39 PM
336 A policy of only contactless fare payments has been in place for 6 months so no further
impact should occur.
1/27/2022 2:33 PM
337 Fares are affordable for frequent riders who need to ride bus.1/27/2022 2:19 PM
338 More time efficient than cash, easier to keep track of personal expenses.1/27/2022 2:18 PM
339 This excludes folk who are elderly, non-tech proficient, illiterate, or lack accessibility to the app
or card from taking public transportation.
1/27/2022 2:02 PM
340 Only Positive if TAP vending sources are very convenient 1/27/2022 2:00 PM
341 I cannot say how locals will be impacted by this, but as someone who recently visited Santa
Monica, I enjoyed having flexible payment options, such as the regular day pass as I was
using Big Blue Bus to navigate the area. I believe eliminating these options may make it more
difficult for others to travel and enjoy what Santa Monica has to offer.
1/27/2022 1:22 PM
342 Contactless fare payments speeds boarding but I feel sorry for people who use public
transportation infrequently or are visitors to our city. I don't think anyone would expect a bus to
not accept cash. This isn't exactly like going through a turnstile to get on a train or subway.
1/27/2022 1:18 PM
343 There are probably a considerable number of people who do not have TAP cards nor have
mobile phones (for mobile ticketing), including but not limited to tourists who may want to ride
the BBB.
1/27/2022 1:17 PM
344 Refusing cash payment severely limits the options for some riders, especially those who have
low income or who aren’t tech savvy.
1/27/2022 1:08 PM
345 People who don't have credit or debit cards, smartphones- how can they pay their fare if they
only have cash?
1/27/2022 9:12 AM
346 BBB isn’t as integrated with TAP technology to make it the primary mode of payment.
Whatever time saved by not accepting cash has now been shifted to drivers having to explain
how to pay, passengers downloading apps, adding fare media to phones, etc.
1/27/2022 8:10 AM
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43.14%302
21.86%153
11.71%82
9.86%69
9.00%63
4.43%31
Q2 Big Blue Bus has long had a policy of allowing customers to ride who
don’t have a fare.Big Blue Bus is proposing an update to that policy to
provide a courtesy (free) ride to customers who don’t have a TAP card or
mobile ticket.
Answered: 700 Skipped: 15
TOTAL 700
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 While that is fine for someone who is in need it can be abused. There should be a drop box like
the iron rangers used at park parking lots for people to drop a dollar or $2 in if they don't have
the fare.
2/17/2022 8:14 AM
2 I left my tap card at home one day and was not able to use Bus #1 had to wait for metro bus
#4
2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 There are a number of homeless an very poor bus riders who can’t afford the fare 2/17/2022 6:32 AM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
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4 There's always emergency situations that hopefully will not be abused.2/16/2022 5:50 PM
5 Would be very positive if there were honest people who forgot about no cash fares or tap card.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
6 We want to embrace and encourage BBB riders. The bus transit is a community service.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
7 Why should I pay then 2/16/2022 3:12 AM
8 People should pay to ride the bus. Not requiring payment degrades the experience of paying
customers because it raises the number of vagrants, indigents, addicts, and mentally
disturbed people on the bus. These riders are frequently frightening to deal with. I realize it’s
not easy to enforce payment, but I would prefer it if there were some way to do so. I am a
regular rider but my wife will not ride alone because of terrifying experiences with vagrants
running amok.
2/15/2022 5:46 PM
9 I believe that this Policy would allow “Unscrupulous” (so-called) Customers to Exploit Big Blue
Bus.
2/15/2022 4:23 PM
10 Why in the world would you get a tap card if it is free without? If customers value the service,
then they need to pay for it.
2/15/2022 3:42 PM
11 Were the bus drivers supposed to be doing this the last year? I saw a few drivers here and
there letting people on when they had no cards, or their cards didn't work, but lots of drivers
wouldnt do it. Or would argue with people too much. Some of your drivers just arent all that
nice to people, so I'm not sure they will ever let people ride without fare or cards.
2/15/2022 2:52 PM
12 Too many " don't want to pay " vs cannot pay. Out of towners, no Tap card are ok here and
there.
2/15/2022 1:07 PM
13 If you allow customers to ride free every time they say that they don't have a TAP card or a
mobile ticket, everyone will decide that they don't have a TAP card or a mobile ticket which will
defeat the whole purpose of paying for rides.
2/15/2022 9:24 AM
14 Good way to ameliorate bad effects of requiring TAP cards for visitors, but likely to be subject
to increased abuse by locals.
2/15/2022 5:07 AM
15 I get very bitter that I am sure to always pay but the same people seem to always ride for free.
Just let us all ride for free then.
2/14/2022 11:31 PM
16 No fare, no ride. Seems pretty straight forward. Otherwise this will be abused. Need to ensure
it's easy for visitors/tourists to buy a TAP card/single trip card in advance. Will there be
vending stations at every bus stop? Or retailers located nearby most stops?
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
17 As above, there just aren't enough places to acquire a contactless card for infrequent users,
visitors or economically-challenged. It's easier to just let them ride. I'll pay because I can.
2/14/2022 9:02 PM
18 how many "courtesy" rides? people will take advantage.2/14/2022 7:16 PM
19 Still, people need to pay their way through life. Giving complementary tickets is a good idea in
discussion circumstances if it is not a practice. The proposal seems to be leaning to a norm.
No! Taxpayers again will pickup that tab.
2/14/2022 6:17 PM
20 some people come to california and don't know about tap cards so this is excellent.2/14/2022 5:43 PM
21 Good idea (for reasons I gave in answer to question 1), but I'm afraid a lot of people wouldn't
bother to get and pay for TAP cards,mobile tickets, or pay for rides or cash value if they can
get rides for free. Good idea (especially for tourists who don't know fares and often don't have
TAP cards) but might need work. Not sure what to suggest to prevent idea being abused and
then fares for those who do pay get raised.
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
22 Positive yet open to abuse.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
23 Will be greatly abused unless there is a way to track it which there isn’t.2/14/2022 4:00 PM
24 Then everybody will say they don't have a tap card. This City, State and Country is enabling
laziness.
2/14/2022 3:50 PM
25 abuse is rampant already, but considering safety, it may be a necessary evil 2/14/2022 3:23 PM
26 Only once for passengers is okay 2/14/2022 2:48 PM
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27 It would be great if you had this policy, cause obviously now you've made it so lots of people
don't have the kind of fare you accept. I never heard that you had this before though. I seen
some drivers get real angry at people when they didn't have money or fare cards of some sort.
Shouting and hollering, and sometimes paying no attention to the screen then claiming a
person didn't pay when they did, and threatening them. Scaring everyone on the bus. And also
now they just strand people lots of times for trying to use cash but not having one of those
cards. Or even just if their phone ticket isn't working right when they try to get on the bus. So
obviously it would be nice if the drivers quit doing that.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
28 Should not allow those who do not pay on bus. Most are homeless and ill smelling/ behaving.2/14/2022 2:27 PM
29 Provided this is applied consistently by all operators.2/14/2022 2:12 PM
30 I have repeatedly noticed the same persons getting the courtesy ride. How is a driver to know
who has already had a free ride?
2/14/2022 2:09 PM
31 Yes, that would be very helpful for seniors that are unable to get the TAP card/mobile ticket. If
this is proposition passes, make sure the drivers are fully informed as I have seen a few that
were rude to passengers who did not have their fare including elderly passengers. It's possible
the drivers were new.
2/14/2022 1:26 PM
32 That great. Sometimes. I forgot my tap card 2/14/2022 1:23 PM
33 I personally think that by the BBB continuing this policy is an excellent idea because there
might be tourists who don’t know that the BBB has a cashless fare system. Also, there are
people under the welfare system that may not be able to pay for a ride on the BBB.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
34 Absolutely necessary if you get rid of cash payment on board.2/14/2022 1:02 PM
35 But then everyone will want a free ride. Make it EASY TO GET AND RELOAD TAP CARDS.2/14/2022 1:00 PM
36 Never seen it happen 2/14/2022 12:55 PM
37 Seriously? We already already have people not paying and sleeping on the trains.2/14/2022 12:45 PM
38 They are probably going to need more than one, but I think one is a minimum.2/14/2022 12:27 PM
39 This is not an acceptable solution to cashless operations. Don't divide riders into have-tap
cards and don't-have-tap cards.
2/14/2022 12:24 PM
40 so, it would basically be free? because will just lie about not having a tap card and your bus
operator isn't going to pat down every customer to check for one.
2/14/2022 12:08 PM
41 More homeless people would ride around which would not make it safe 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
42 How about pairing with TAP to place more TAP vendors at or near Big Blue Bus stops instead?2/14/2022 12:05 PM
43 Certain people would never pay - such as homeless & even others. Bus would be full of non-
paying riders & paying riders would stop riding the bus. You would completely destroy bus
service. Keep mandatory cash fares.
2/14/2022 11:51 AM
44 I think it's unfair to those who pay. Or maybe don't eliminate fare all in all, but charge more for
those who don't use TAP or mobile tickets
2/14/2022 11:11 AM
45 although I appreciate the compassionate view of offering free rides, and I've seen it extended
to people while I'm riding, I do worry that a certain segment of the population will try to take
advantage, creating uncomfortable situations for drivers and riders. I don't have a good answer
for this situation.
2/14/2022 11:11 AM
46 Not all drivers actually implement this, though most do.2/14/2022 11:06 AM
47 Ppl that pay or struggle to have there fare,are most upset .and courtesy rides...why should
i...pay and can't buy lunch
2/14/2022 10:51 AM
48 Feels unfair to people that do the right thing & pay full fare 2/14/2022 10:47 AM
49 People don't know about this, or might be ashamed to ask. I have been so embarrassed lately
when UCLA Transportation screwed up my flash pass TAP card. Others who know about the
service might take advantage.
2/14/2022 10:41 AM
50 I believe those who can not pay need to register for a subsidized fare based on income. I have
been on Metro buses where the “ unhoused” ride around all day. It is not fair to students and
2/14/2022 10:39 AM
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those who work for a living. A bus should be a safe place for a child not a shelter for the
homeless. Point in check, city policy turned the main library into a daycare facility for the
unhoused while citizens of Santa Monica have to go else where or refuse to take their children
to the library due to the stench of the unbathed.
51 This is nonsense. This is a tautology. You are saying the exact same thing. "Instead of
allowing customers to ride who don't have a fare, we are considering allowing customers to ride
who don't have the fare." What is this nonsense, another slight-of-hand attempt by Ed King to
convince the public that he is doing something positive when in fact he is doing nothing? Or,
even worse, doing something positive when in fact he is doing something negative, like the
time he took 9 million dollars in federal monies earmarked to IMPROVE mass transit and
instead made it worse by replacing great bus benches by art deco projects of laughably less
functionality.
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
52 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
53 It’s probably safer for the drivers 2/14/2022 10:27 AM
54 You will have more people saying they don't have a tap card, they didn't know, etc. I see this
every time. If a homeless looking man can get a card, so can all these other people
2/14/2022 10:26 AM
55 Yes! Not everyone has the ability or rides the bus often to use a TAP card.2/14/2022 10:16 AM
56 How would a tourist or older person know to get or know how to deal with non-cash fares? This
is a good idea.
2/14/2022 10:14 AM
57 Some people are unaware of the contactless fare payment. However customers should be
informed that they need a TAP card or mobile ticket to ride the bus. Perhaps there should be
pamphlets or fliers placed in or near the front of the bus explaining where to get TAP cards or
mobile tickets.
2/14/2022 10:12 AM
58 This addresses the only big concern about eliminating cash fares: causing slowdowns due to
conflict with operators and/or discouraging new riders.
2/14/2022 10:08 AM
59 Good idea. Let seniors ride free 2/12/2022 4:26 PM
60 Please educate your own bus drivers about this policy. Mysteriously, an awful lot of them
seem to be completely unaware of it. I seen some of them have terrible fights with passengers
who can't pay and the drivers were always the ones starting and continuing the fights. Many of
them treat people poorly who can't pay, berate them and say nasty things. And as mentioned,
sometimes people are just refused a ride outright and get stranded. You folks at the fancy
agency management office ought to spend a few weeks in the real world like your customers,
getting rides on your own buses and in street clothes. Ride all the lines at different times of
day, see the attitude you get when you get on a bus without a fare, and watch how other
people are treated.
2/11/2022 3:31 PM
61 Very positive impact! Many times I did not have enough pocket change. Would be short a
quarter or two and the bus operator would kick me out. As a teen that impacted me negatively.
Glad that is about to change for others.
2/11/2022 2:30 PM
62 some people take advantage &riade mulltipke bsses 2/11/2022 7:43 AM
63 Riders are Riding Free cause they don't have a Tap Card, just Cash!2/11/2022 12:59 AM
64 I am a student who utilized this in the past. However, I have encountered bus drivers who very
aggressively do not want to allow for this.
2/10/2022 10:07 PM
65 Humane yet at driver’s discretion and evaluation whether the person is of reasonable hygiene 2/10/2022 8:59 PM
66 good for some, not for others 2/10/2022 8:43 PM
67 Sometimes unavoidable things happen.2/10/2022 8:17 PM
68 The good is, tourists and homeless would be helped. Bad is, paying customers may also be
having a hard time coming up with the fare. And the later will be subsidizing the tourists and
homeless. Bad is a lot of people take advantage of the free ride.
2/10/2022 7:52 PM
69 I see every two o three days per week people getting a free pass. It's either a homeless or just
don't wanna pay.
2/10/2022 5:30 PM
70 Sometimes tourist do not know the rules of public transportation.2/10/2022 4:45 PM
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71 Why am I paying my fare, when everybody else is riding for free? I'm on a fixed income. How
is it fair that others ride for free, while I collect cans to pay my fare?
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
72 I paid to ride, why shouldn't other people pay as well.2/10/2022 2:28 PM
73 This policy is being taken advantage of and is unfair to the passengers who have paid a fare 2/10/2022 2:14 PM
74 allows people to take advantage and ride for free 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
75 Continue this policy for occasional/rare riders and tourists because it is confusing for them.
Also for many riders who do not own smartphones and are confused when drivers instruct
them about the Transit (or other) app
2/10/2022 2:02 PM
76 no wasted time 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
77 Most riders want to pay as "you go", not search around to find a TAP purchase outlet. Many
older citizens have trouble getting around
2/10/2022 7:22 AM
78 I am strongly in favor of providing courtesy rides 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
79 It’s a nice goodwill gesture 2/9/2022 11:45 PM
80 Ride often and seems like the only ones who ride free are dirty, smelly and often bring on bags
of cans/bottles or dirty old suitcases
2/9/2022 11:28 PM
81 This policy would encourage people to spend their day riding the bus and never paying a fare. I
have visited other cities and purchased cards just to use their transit systems.
2/9/2022 10:04 PM
82 This would be good but the rules must be made public. For example, Is this for those that don’t
have a tap or those that refuse to pay that way?
2/9/2022 10:02 PM
83 That is a good idea for those without a TAP card or mobile ticket.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
84 Again, if seniors, physically challenged, students, children et al. do not have the money or the
TAP card to ride the bus, they should be able to ride for free. Better than hitchhiking!
2/9/2022 6:21 PM
85 I don’t have either card. Two Quarters $.50 is easier for me.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
86 CASH must still be an option.2/9/2022 5:14 PM
87 Very nice idea, especially as public transportation should be free!!!2/9/2022 5:11 PM
88 I think the policy will be abused by those who can afford to pay but just don't feel like it, or
don't want to bother setting up the mobile ticketing app on their phone. A better policy would be
to officially require a fare, but instruct operators to not engage or react when a customer
doesn't pay. Another option would be to allow a customer to ride while he/she is loading the
mobile ticket, and ask them to show it upon exit.
2/9/2022 4:48 PM
89 If that is the unwritten policy, I'd like to see this stated up front. As I said above, I don't want a
free ride, but if it's policy then those who don't have the money will feel better. I think it is very
important for those who don't have a card to be welcomed with no to do about it. Let them feel
like anyone else. Yes, state it upfront for all to see and to know.
2/9/2022 4:39 PM
90 This alleviates an economic stressor on those who cannot afford the fare, but I have also
witnessed persons who can afford the fare and use their (purported, perhaps) limited English
proficiency and/or age to abuse this policy.
2/9/2022 4:28 PM
91 I might need this the first time if I get on a Blue Bus again before I can get a TAP card for it.2/9/2022 4:27 PM
92 .2/9/2022 4:08 PM
93 I've never heard of this policy, and neither has anyone I know. I've asked around and
everybody who's been riding your buses noticed the same stuff I have. Your drivers have
always just done whatever they like when someone doesn't have money. Some of them are
nice and let people on anyway, and some of them act incredibly nasty and treat those people
horribly, argue with them, yell, threaten to call police and have them fined or arrested, try to
throw them out of the bus, and just love to make a scene and humiliate people. It upsets
everyone else on the bus when it happens and makes it scary to ride on your buses. Because
if the driver is acting angry and unstable, people on the bus start wondering about what crazy
thing they might do behind the wheel. If you get one of the nasty drivers, god only knows what
upsetting scene you might have to see today or especially what abuse will be thrown at you if
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
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you're the unlucky person to not have money on you. I expect it will still be exactly the same if
someone doesn't have one of the plastic cards.
94 Homeless?2/9/2022 2:04 PM
95 I think this change would be beneficial to the bus-riding community. As someone who
purchases a bus pass year-round to go to school, I would still buy the bus pass to support the
BBB and other riders.
2/9/2022 1:41 PM
96 Ostensibly I could always claim that I don't have a TAP card and ride for free forever. I dont
like the idea of turning people away, but temporary TAP cards were a thing even three years
ago. Consider the feasibility of integrating those again.
2/9/2022 1:24 PM
97 This is a positive mitigation provided that it is followed by every bus driver and made
absolutely clear to all riders.
2/9/2022 12:21 PM
98 Yes, BBB should absolutely provide free rides to people who do not have a tap card.
Additionally, people should be able to load their tap cards on their phones and pay using the
NFC feature available on most if not all smartphones.
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
99 this policy is not followed regularly and those don't have a TAP card are treated like lepers 2/9/2022 8:59 AM
100 I guess that’ll eliminate my initial issue of not having the time to reload the fare 2/9/2022 8:10 AM
101 I am aware of this. I am fine with this. I just want enforcement of masks. Wearing them above
the nose. Most drivers say nothing.
2/9/2022 7:58 AM
102 No incentive for people to pay. Either charge or go free for all 2/9/2022 7:45 AM
103 There are many safety issues when it comes to allowing people to board the bus without
paying a fare, just like the metro. It’s great to allow some people on board if they forgot/lost a
card or phone but the driver should have ultimate say on who is allowed, with the safety of all
aboard in mind.
2/8/2022 8:18 PM
104 This would save time for transit patrons.2/8/2022 8:08 PM
105 None whatsoever, either.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
106 That is positive for the very poor population like the Homeless, but might be exploided by
others.
2/8/2022 12:28 PM
107 Everyone should pay into the system even if it is at a reduced rate like for seniors. If people
are low income, there should be a process by which they qualify for a reduced rate.
2/8/2022 10:49 AM
108 Good as some people such as tourists are not aware of new policies. Maybe it is good to post
more information at the stops about where to get TAP card or have someone on board to
explain
2/8/2022 5:59 AM
109 I think that persons information should be collected via some form of ID 2/8/2022 4:35 AM
110 Unfortunately there will be many people abusing this courtesy but I do t know how you entice
new rider without providing this courtesy.
2/7/2022 11:10 PM
111 Everybody has to pay 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
112 This is the reason why you charge the regular customers such high fees - to offset the free
rides you give. Also, you give rides to so many homeless creating a scary environment inside
the bus
2/7/2022 10:47 PM
113 Do you really think people are going to use this? They're just going to embarrased and step off
the bus, or simply not get on in the first place.
2/7/2022 9:45 PM
114 I'm completely shocked to hear of this long standing policy as I've seen drivers ask patrons to
leave the bus if they don't have fare. Do they know that policy?
2/7/2022 9:10 PM
115 If you read my last comment you can see why this is a necessary move.2/7/2022 9:07 PM
116 It can be beneficial to people who have genuinely forgotten their card but allows for some to
take advantage of the system
2/7/2022 8:17 PM
117 If phasing out cash entirely is the ultimate goal and you trust people not to abuse the free ride,
this is a good work around for the card-loading issue mentioned above.
2/7/2022 7:42 PM
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118 The bus needs to be a viable alternative to driving. That can’t happen if it’s the transport
system for the homeless. The fare should be enforced.
2/7/2022 6:51 PM
119 Most of the drivers I've seen know how to tell someone who is truly in need of a free fare from
a freeloader.
2/7/2022 6:51 PM
120 Open for abuse.2/7/2022 6:42 PM
121 I’m not a fan of letting just anyone—shady characters—ride free but it’s good for people who
do need to get to work and just don’t have fare
2/7/2022 6:39 PM
122 I am neutral on this as it will benefit those who honestly are without a tap card - but there are
those who might take advantage and just never pay.
2/7/2022 5:21 PM
123 If you only had cash or didn’t know about a TAP card the free ride goes a long way.2/7/2022 5:16 PM
124 Too many people hop on the bus & not pay, they are often regulars at avoiding fare, they
congest the buses & it is unfair for those that do pay & can’t get a seat. These people
regularly cause problems on the bus as well & drivers do not address them.
2/7/2022 5:14 PM
125 What an insane idea. You want to know why everyone hates the bus. It’s because you let
dangerous homeless on.
2/7/2022 5:09 PM
126 freedom of movement is paramount!2/7/2022 2:57 PM
127 It is a great policy, but I think it may make it too easy to abuse the system.2/7/2022 2:54 PM
128 In my case, I was not allowed a courtesy ride.2/7/2022 2:30 PM
129 I this abused by riders who are disruptive. Prob have access to free rides and sell those tap
cards for drug $.
2/7/2022 2:28 PM
130 If they have not bathed and smell badly that will be a problem for me.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
131 I like the BBB because it feels safer usually, but sometimes I notice seemingly sick and/or
homeless people on the bus. I feel much less safe and clean. I also have seen people take
advantage of this policy, choosing to state that they don’t/didn’t know how to get a card or
reload the card. On the other hand, I was able to help a fellow bus rider learn how to get tap on
her phone wallet while waiting for the bus and after she completed signing up for it, she was
able to pay for the ride while on the bus. This is because the bus rider was ethical and actually
asked me to help her pay for the ride somehow.
2/7/2022 2:07 PM
132 Doesn't affect me.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
133 Why ever pay?2/7/2022 1:49 PM
134 Everyone should pay, or else make the bus free to everyone 2/7/2022 1:48 PM
135 No one should be turned away if they can’t pay the fare.2/7/2022 1:46 PM
136 It should be for newcomers only that don’t know about the tap cards.2/7/2022 1:45 PM
137 All fares should be free.2/7/2022 1:21 PM
138 I think this is a generous proposal.2/7/2022 1:17 PM
139 Some riders don’t always remember the last load and sometime are 25¢ to 50¢ short.2/7/2022 1:00 PM
140 I’ll take a free ride as long as you guys don’t go out of business :)2/7/2022 12:38 PM
141 It’s a pain for the drivers. It wouldn’t be necessary if you allow LEGAL TENDER.2/7/2022 12:37 PM
142 Not good for BBB or fair and equal treatment to all citizens.2/7/2022 12:34 PM
143 Good Idea !2/7/2022 12:29 PM
144 Not everyone can have a TAP card 2/7/2022 12:13 PM
145 This will allow student riders who make up the bulk of commuters the ability to enjoy hassel
free travels.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
146 I've seen many people get rejected for not having money and I have been rejected because my
card wasn't working even though it had $10 loaded on it. So please make sure to give people
2/7/2022 11:53 AM
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the benefit of the doubt.
147 Transit should be free for all.2/7/2022 11:52 AM
148 I have taken a ride occasionally where my card wasn't filled or I didn't renew my pass through
work in time. This policy would not allow me to get a ride in a pinch.
2/7/2022 11:51 AM
149 If people can afford to buy Starbucks coffee holding in their hands while NOT HAVING TO PAY
THEIR RIDES is such an INSULT TO ME /US the regular riding passengers. So it's definitely a
NO FARE NO FREE RIDE.
2/7/2022 11:43 AM
150 All rides should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
151 Many of the unhoused transients get on the bus and can be disruptive with no mask. I don’t
think they should be able to ride if they don’t have a mask and look under the influence of
alcohol/substance.
2/7/2022 11:39 AM
152 Is this policy consistent with other municipal public transit- SF muni for example? I have been
denied boarding because my pass ran out of rides so this policy seems very inconsistently
applied. So if you possess a TAP card but it does not have sufficient funds you will be denied
boarding, but if you don’t have a TAP card you can get a free ride? This isn’t very logical.
2/7/2022 11:35 AM
153 That’s a great idea!2/7/2022 11:32 AM
154 Yes i love this - Ive seen so many ppl only have cash on them and allowed to ride the bus 2/7/2022 11:27 AM
155 This policy encourages BBriders to not buy in on purchase of tap card. Riding free can become
habitual. What rights does the bus driver have to not allow someone without fare to ride?
2/7/2022 11:24 AM
156 This was helpful when I had exhausted my allowance on my Tap Card, then later was able to
add funds without missing my bus and being out late in the cold from home, so it kept me
safe.
2/7/2022 11:23 AM
157 I don’t want bums and vagrants to use the bus as I feel unsafe around them. People who are
going to work will have their fares in order but joyriders won’t.
2/7/2022 11:11 AM
158 This would solve the problem I outlined above.2/7/2022 11:10 AM
159 Could be exploited by drifters, mental-cases and homeless.2/7/2022 11:10 AM
160 Yes 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
161 How often is this courtesy free ride available 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
162 This should be left to the discretion of the operator; not a blanket policy which becomes a "pay
if you wish" approach.
2/7/2022 11:04 AM
163 I have not experienced this policy—I have even seen people be yelled at for not having fare. I
think this is an important policy but I think it needs to be better implemented/enforced.
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
164 I think this will help people of all ages get to where they need to go, because most people are
not from Los Angeles and don’t know how much is a ticket or just spent there lass dollar.
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
165 Due to the growing issue of the Homeless population, many already do not feel safe when it
comes to public transit. Although some may not have a valid form of payment due to a
mistake, homeless tend to board the bus and threaten other riders without paying. Extending
this policy may make the ride experience much worse than intended.
2/7/2022 11:02 AM
166 I’m surprised to hear of a present policy that allows customers a free ride because of how
frequently I see riders firmly denied one. I believe courtesy rides would have a positive impact
on the community, but either way please make sure drivers enforce the rule fairly.
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
167 The free courtesy ride should have a measurement component- ie: a monthly limit…. By color.
Give a paper coupon for a month… get it at retailer for a minimum purchase. That way there is
a tax benifit for city.
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
168 Yes I love that idea 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
169 I support an official policy update permitting courtesy rides, as I have been in the position of a
not-working TAP Card a few times and was very grateful to the bus operators for allowing me
to continue riding.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
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170 See comment above. Although the policy has been long standing it’s not always observed with
dignity.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
171 This is also negative because then customers would not pay at all. The bus fare should just
revert back to cash and tap acceptance to avoid continuous conflict with drivers.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
172 Allows for bbb to look like a tolerant business. Not so harsh,2/7/2022 10:58 AM
173 All of these systems take a while to mature. There needs to be a lot of "grace" while
transitioning. Bus drivers need to be given full autonomy to manage the boarding process,
including, as they always have, waiving fares. Farebox recovery is a token, a method of
gatekeeping, not an absolute revenue source.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
174 It's un fare for those that do pay!!2/7/2022 10:56 AM
175 Great idea but where’s the line drawn? How big is the income? Why not just have free fare?
And I’m not being sarcastic
2/7/2022 10:53 AM
176 This is great. There were two times that I could not show my mobile pass because my mobile
device was off and needed charging.
2/7/2022 10:53 AM
177 Too many take advantage of the free ride now providing unsafe conditions for everyone on
board
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
178 How would that work? I think it wouldn’t be fair because many would take advantage of it and
the city would be losing money
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
179 If you can already ride for free if you do not have the fare, I don’t see how this is an updated
proposal. I actually do support the free rides though. I don’t how how much money TAP brings
in, but I would presume it’s not that much money, therefore the loss of TAP income is
something I don’t really care about and would honestly support having my taxes go more
towards BBB.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
180 Accessible public transit for all!!! Yes!!!2/7/2022 10:48 AM
181 Many will pay, and many will take advantage of this.2/7/2022 10:48 AM
182 You will have every homeless person aboard, with risk of disease and crime to fare-paying
people. I WILL NOT ride the bus if you continue to let the freeloaders on board.
2/7/2022 10:46 AM
183 Please make sure to advertise this policy. People/tourist won't know this and would avoid
taking the ride.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
184 It takes hours for tap card payments to be updated when I reload my card through the app 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
185 That changes my answer to question 1. Great idea.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
186 Yes 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
187 Good idea! Sometimes you leave your card at home, your phone dies so you cant use an e-
card, etc etc.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
188 you let homeless ride for free but turn away elderly or non english speaking tourists!2/7/2022 10:43 AM
189 If that is the policy, drivers are very arbitrary in their enforcement. The bigger issue for me is
not not having a card, but having it drop too low without me realizing or in a situation where I
can't reload before my next ride.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
190 So, why should I spend my hard earned $ when anyone could ride for free.2/7/2022 10:42 AM
191 Gonna have to if you're trying to phase out cash payments. The virus doesn't spread from
nickels and quarters that sit in a coin box all day, this is absolutely ridiculous and only limits
availability for destitute riders. STOP with this contactless payment nonsense. It is not even a
legitimate solution, rather just a nonsensical smokescreen that further burdens people who
already gave burdensome lives. City living needs to get easier, NOT harder.
2/7/2022 10:42 AM
192 This would allow homeless people on the bus and would reduce safety.2/7/2022 10:41 AM
193 It would prevent conflict between drivers and riders. It would ensure access for all. It would
make me less angry at the cost of transportation. Everyone should have access always!
2/7/2022 10:41 AM
194 I think this is a very positive step I think they should extend the Free Fair program to people 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
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who are writing off peak hours to encourage more ridership.
195 This helps people who don't have access to a tap card, a mobile phone that uses NFT, or can't
navigate a phone website to show proof of fare.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
196 Yes and the paying customers witness the daily scam of people taking advantage of your good
nature. It's to the point where I am taking the time for this survey to voice my opinion that'll
probably mean nothing
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
197 No homeless riders pay or not 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
198 Everyone needs to pay their fair share, keep tabs on this somehow...2/7/2022 10:39 AM
199 Like this idea BUT MANY would take advantage of it 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
200 Nobody wants to say it but homeless people who abuse public transportation to sleep and just
ride around reduce the inclination of others to get out of their cars and use public
transportation. It is a problem that's abetted by free fares. There. I've said it!
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
201 I use Big Blue Bus infrequently, when I go into that area: being able to continue using cash as
a date is significantly easier then having to track down where to obtain a senior BBB TAP card,
how/where to load it, how long the fair on the card remains valid, et al.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
202 People would take advantage of that and it's not fair to those who pay 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
203 Make evertbody pay 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
204 I read your sentence and I don’t see any change between your old policy and your new policy.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
205 How about instead of raising the fare from $1 to $1.25 you stop providing free rides to people
who refuse to pay. If everyone paid for their fare then it would presumably be less necessary to
raise the fare.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
206 This could pose a security risk, but at the same time could help people who can’t afford it so
I’m neutral.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
207 Does that mean anyone can claim a free ride by saying they do not have a card? Sounds like
a lot of people would scam the BBB over and over.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
208 Public transit is a public good and should be free for everyone. The very least we can do is
provide free rides to those who don’t have a ticket.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
209 What’s the point of charging if you penalize honest people 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
210 Will allow more homeless on buses jeopardizing rider safety 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
211 Often times those who do not have a fare don’t follow proper masking protocols and are rowdy
or aggressive. In my personal experience when this happens I feel unsafe on the bus
physically, and as someone who takes the BBB as a safer alternative to the metro it makes
me feel uncomfortable. Understandably people may forget their fare but they can also
theoretically just ride free as many times as they want as long as they don’t encounter the
same driver.
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
212 This would have an extremely positive impact. Things happen. Sometimes people forget, or
they don’t have enough money to ride the bus but we all have places to be.
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
213 I think if you are switching to cashless fair this is the only fair way to do it.2/7/2022 10:36 AM
214 Low-income people may not be able to afford to spend the time and/or money to get a TAP
card or ticket
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
215 Good idea 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
216 While I have yet to see criminal behavior on BB, it is far different on Metro's system. I've seen
actually physical fights between drivers and spaced-out druggies. No fair, no board, driver
choice.
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
217 Free rides for everyone, everyone will "forget" their TAP card.2/7/2022 10:35 AM
218 Will encourage homeless to ride free all the time 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
219 Accidents happen 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
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220 Homeless people will continue abusing this policy. Customers who ride buses will continue
feeling unsafe and buses will continue being dirty.
2/7/2022 10:35 AM
221 Buses full of homeless people like the metro services are not wanted or needed 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
222 This would fix the above, however it is t advertised so it’s likely our theoretical out of town
traveller wouldn’t even try.
2/7/2022 10:33 AM
223 I have had this happen in other cities and it is very stressful if you haven't been able to get a
ticket.
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
224 How is this different than the existing policy? Does it mean people only get 1 courtesy ride?2/7/2022 10:32 AM
225 I’ve never seen a BBB driver give a free ride so this would be a great start 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
226 People already lie about this 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
227 I have never heard of a courtesy ride, it has never been advertised to me and I don’t know
anyone else who knows about this so I don’t think I could say it has a positive impact on me.
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
228 I think this is good! Some people are sometimes literally stranded some places with nothing on
them.
2/7/2022 10:31 AM
229 The bus should be free we pay taxes for a reason 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
230 People will abuse this and never get a tap card. They should at least have cash.2/7/2022 10:28 AM
231 Too many transients 2/7/2022 10:27 AM
232 This wiil encourage homeless rides.2/7/2022 10:23 AM
233 The bus is a public service and everyone should be able to ride 2/6/2022 9:54 PM
234 I think people who are in financial straits should be allowed to ride free, but how would the
driver prevent people from taking advantage of free ridership they don’t legitimately need?
2/5/2022 4:16 PM
235 Smart move. Must have some limits.2/5/2022 7:26 AM
236 Why do you let people ride who won't pay the fare? What's the point of that? Why have fares at
all, then? Just make it free for everyone....is it simply a fare for those who feel guilty enough to
pay for it?
2/4/2022 2:43 PM
237 Hard to judge the reasons for no ticket and complimentary ride, but I’m not affected by it.
Sometimes things happen electronically too!
2/4/2022 2:41 PM
238 people take advantage .2/3/2022 10:23 AM
239 Just accept cash fares.2/3/2022 7:41 AM
240 This is important, as such a person may have no other transportation available at the moment.2/2/2022 9:23 PM
241 It would be great if this really happened. But plenty of your bus drivers before the pandemic
would not let people ride for free like you're claiming here. They would harass and humiliate the
homeless and other people who had no money, yell at you and even threaten to throw you off
the bus and call the police on you. Some of them got really angry and aggressive.
2/2/2022 4:27 PM
242 Homeless okay as long as they aren't filthy and are wearing masks.2/2/2022 2:59 PM
243 Courtesy ride if a polucy will be abused.2/2/2022 10:13 AM
244 People will take advantage unless you can keep track of who is getting the free rides 2/2/2022 9:53 AM
245 *If* you are going contactless fare, then I feel you *must* offer this. Obviously if people are
abusing the privilege, then don't let them on, but I think this would mainly affect tourists and
people who don't use the bus that often.
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
246 Make transit free for everyone 2/1/2022 10:21 AM
247 I am very surprised to learn that "Big Blue Bus has long had a policy of allowing customers to
ride who don’t have a fare". I have been riding the BBB buses for years, and have witnessed
multiple incidents where your drivers have gotten quite angry at passengers who weren't able
to pay the fare, and proceeded to act in aggressive and frightening ways toward said
passengers, resulting in extremely unpleasant or even terrifying experiences for every single
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
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other person on the bus. I've experienced things such as a driver turning on an extremely loud
recorded announcement threatening fines and arrest to anyone who doesn't pay the fare - and
letting this announcement repeat nonstop on the bus overheard system for the next 30 minutes
- bothering and upsetting everyone on the bus, one who made such a huge public fuss berating
and humiliating an unhoused passenger who clearly had no money that a random woman on
the bus felt forced to come up and hand over her own money for the fare to satisfy the the
angry driver, and a driver who outright started screaming at the passenger and threatening him
- and continued to aggressively scream at the entire bus for the next 20 minutes like he was
utterly unhinged - while driving the vehicle. If you did actually have such a policy, an appalling
number of your drivers were clearly never aware of it, or didn't care to uphold it. It is unlikely
the situation will improve now with any kind of "update". Many of your drivers over the years
have been shockingly angry, aggressive and unprofessional individuals. I myself was once
aggressively berated and nearly thrown off a Big Blue Bus by one such angry, hostile and
unprofessional driver - even though I DID pay - this man outright refused to look at his own
machine which clearly showed that I had swiped my valid student ID and just kept calling me a
liar, demanding I pay again, and threatening to throw me off the bus. Frankly, I couldn't help but
conclude from all these incidents that your drivers tend to heavily skew towards being
especially hostile and abusive regarding fares towards passengers who appear to be poorer,
which makes this policy of yours in effect useless, as these are the passengers most likely to
be in need of a free ride once in awhile.
248 Why strand some one who doesn't even have $1.10 to their name? That's just cruel.1/31/2022 9:52 PM
249 Unmasked homeless are riding for free 1/31/2022 2:43 PM
250 Ugh. But the homeless…..1/31/2022 1:22 PM
251 I’m not sure I understand why folks who didn’t have the required fare be allowed to ride for free.1/31/2022 12:23 PM
252 If you must go no cash this is necessary to allow everyone to ride the bus.1/31/2022 12:10 PM
253 anyone can say they dont have a tap card. I think the big blue could hand out complimentary
tap cards and also voice announce if people have a smart phone to download the app.
1/31/2022 11:22 AM
254 Seems like anyone could just ride for free in this case, which is fine. Public transit should be
free anyway.
1/31/2022 10:54 AM
255 I would hope that the bus drive will have some discretion in allowing those without passes to
board. I have noticed several homeless people and others on the verge of the event, not being
able to pay for riding. In most cases, the bus driver has been compassionate. Let us hope this
continues.
1/31/2022 8:39 AM
256 Yes, kindness counts. Offer tap card with ride. Concern with unclean riders, who offer cash,
ask for free rides.
1/30/2022 9:24 PM
257 One downside of that would be: Won't lots of people be tempted to lie, and claim that they
don't have a TAP card, so that they can get lots of free rides?
1/30/2022 1:41 PM
258 As I said, in answering question #1, there are many valid reasons why passengers might not
have a TAP card. Many of those passengers are residents of Santa Monica. Many of them
fund your bus system through funds from the county, state, and/or federal governments. Many
of them fund Santa Monica tax revenues by staying in Santa Monica hotels. All of these
residents deserve to be able to ride the bus.
1/30/2022 12:38 PM
259 I was unaware this has been BBB policy as my young child and I were left stranded when we
were denied a BBB ride due to being short on our fair after My purse with my disabled TAP
was stolen.
1/30/2022 2:46 AM
260 Word will spread that you just tell the driver you have no cash or tap card or mobile ticket and
you get a free ride. Not fair to those who are honest and pay their fares.
1/28/2022 2:08 PM
261 For the previous point- tourists and anyone unfamiliar with TAP cards.1/28/2022 1:52 PM
262 I have seen german and french tourists turned away from a ride because they did not know
how to buy a ticket! This is both shocking and unacceptable! I do not believe the bus drivers
know about your "free ride" policy - except for the homeless which do get free ride, ugh! MAKE
IT EASIER FOR RIDERS TO BUY A TICKET!
1/28/2022 1:13 PM
263 There will be people who know this and take advantage. Unless this is publicized, most people 1/28/2022 11:34 AM
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will not attempt to board a bus if it has been advertised that a TAP card is the only method of
payment.
264 How will anyone know about this...Can a tourist use this with every boarding? Advertise this on
your bus front if you really want to allow this.
1/28/2022 10:57 AM
265 Why not just make it officially free then? It's much easier to not have a TAP card than to have
a TAP card with fare loaded. It is not fair to the people who have the valid fare and choose to
pay.
1/27/2022 11:35 PM
266 Good for some people, bad if people who abuse the system 1/27/2022 10:05 PM
267 I have seen many operators deny services to homeless customers.1/27/2022 9:57 PM
268 Some people would never pay fares. Keep money fare boxes so everyone pays their fare
share with cash.
1/27/2022 8:17 PM
269 I think that people who take advantage of that 1/27/2022 7:49 PM
270 That would be a very inclusive gesture that I would applaud 1/27/2022 5:38 PM
271 This is yet another reason to keep the cash base fare around. Answer this question: What is
stopping anyone from simply lying about not having a TAP card or mobile ticket just because
of the simple refusal to pay? Keep the cash base fare
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
272 A courtesy ride is a nice option for the reason as above or perhaps elderly person 1/27/2022 4:53 PM
273 I have seen the same person constantly riding the bus for free (looking like a homeless
person). I feel it may encourage others to do the same.
1/27/2022 3:37 PM
274 This is a practice that is going to negatively impact farebox recovery ratio in the long-run and
devalues the service that is being offered. Absent a large subsidy from the FTA or other
municipal agency that mitigates the loss in revenue, courtesy rides should not be offered.
Operators should also be given more discretion in ejecting a non-paying rider from the coach
as was done in years prior. I recognize that operators should not be put in harm's way, yet
there is also something to be said about letting riders get away with not paying, especially with
TAP passes where the loading of fare technology is tracked.
1/27/2022 2:39 PM
275 BBB is already doing this unofficially so there should be little new impact.1/27/2022 2:33 PM
276 I hope too many riders don't take advantage, I've seen this happen and it's not fair for those of
us who pay.
1/27/2022 2:19 PM
277 Please stop this policy of free rides. Countless drunk, homeless with trash bags, unmasked,
aggressive teenagers, etc. stumble on board without paying and the driver can’t do anything. I
think this has contributed hugely to the decline in bus ridership (myself included). . This scares
away the bus riders who do pay and want to be safe.
1/27/2022 2:18 PM
278 This will help those simply don’t have access to either the card or app.1/27/2022 2:02 PM
279 Is this just a language change?1/27/2022 2:00 PM
280 How often are free rides given?1/27/2022 2:00 PM
281 This would help with the tourists who slow by the busses trying to pay with cash.1/27/2022 1:29 PM
282 As a visitor, I was unaware that Big Blue Bus had a policy that pertained to those who didn't
have a fare. In late November, I had to search for and download the Transit mobile app in order
to use the service. I believe any change that makes using Big Blue Bus more accessible for
locals and visitors is a plus.
1/27/2022 1:22 PM
283 This could be subject to chronic abuse though.1/27/2022 1:17 PM
284 If implemented, this policy will encourage free riders. Even though I can pay, I would probably
free ride myself. Seriously.
1/27/2022 1:08 PM
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59.49%417
26.11%183
10.98%77
1.00%7
1.28%9
1.14%8
Q3 Reduce the Regular Single Ride fare on TAP and mobile ticket from
$1.10 to $1.00.
Answered: 701 Skipped: 14
TOTAL 701
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Is a good idea to help the riders 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
2 The added 10cents does confuse using/loading Tap card 2/16/2022 3:23 PM
3 Easy to remember and supportive.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
4 You need charge a fee to recover costs. Nowhere do i know of fares this low. At the very least
fares should be equal to Metro.
2/15/2022 3:42 PM
5 Lowering the prices is a good idea.2/15/2022 2:52 PM
6 Maybe a few more Grifters would pay 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
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7 It's very generous and super affordable to lower the cost of the single ride fare. That way, no
one should have an excuse of why they can't afford to ride Big Blue.
2/15/2022 9:24 AM
8 Less likely to have TAP cards that can’t be used because they don’t have enough fare.
Convenience for individuals offset by loss to BBB.
2/15/2022 5:07 AM
9 BBB/City needs the revenue. $1.10 seems like excellent value. Why reduce further?.....2/14/2022 10:55 PM
10 That sounds reasonable 2/14/2022 6:17 PM
11 some people work low wage jobs and this would be helpful.2/14/2022 5:43 PM
12 revenue 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
13 Easier to keep track of balance if an occasional rider who uses cash value rather than passes
on TAP cards.
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
14 Every little bit counts for frequent riders.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
15 Incentivizes ridership. Easy to think about and apply.2/14/2022 4:00 PM
16 Nice round number.2/14/2022 3:50 PM
17 the more the merrier will be using BBB if it's only a buck 2/14/2022 3:23 PM
18 And maybe make it cheaper for kids, too. All the ones who can't ride for free.2/14/2022 2:35 PM
19 Nice to have a small discount for having TAP/mobile tkt.2/14/2022 1:26 PM
20 Yes. $1 even 2/14/2022 1:23 PM
21 I think that reducing the regular fare to $1 is an excellent idea because it’s a whole lot easier to
pay a $1 than it is a $1.10.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
22 So what happens to the money I've put into the senior buy 12 rides, get the 13th free. Am I not
being overcharged for what other will get for less?
2/14/2022 12:55 PM
23 This would make life easier for some folks - those folks who want to pay cash!!! But of course
you don't want to make things easier on those who pay cash, you want them to disappear!
2/14/2022 12:24 PM
24 Frankly, I would rather BBB keep the dime and raise salaries for drivers or use it for other
improvements or services, but first, pay the drivers well.
2/14/2022 11:11 AM
25 If you did the sensible thing and accepted cash fares, this would make a difference as your
customers wouldn't have to fumble for change.
2/14/2022 10:41 AM
26 Makes little difference as long as TAP and mobile tickets are the only way to pay. There
should be a cash option.
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
27 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
28 As a senior it doesn’t affect me so NA 2/14/2022 10:27 AM
29 Makes up for the hassle of having to get and load mobile or TAP card. By the way, the mobile
app TRANSIT totally sucks!!! I regret every having used it. I think I loaded some fares on
there that I cannot access now. I thought I had to use mobile. Now I know I can use my TAP
card, which is better, but cash is even better.
2/14/2022 10:14 AM
30 Nice to save $0.10, and makes it easier to track my balance.2/14/2022 10:08 AM
31 Any savings is good savings 2/13/2022 3:52 PM
32 I like that round number, it won’t be necessary to fumble for change.2/12/2022 11:03 AM
33 A small step in the right direction, but would like to see fareless service in the future,
potentially in conjunction with Metro.
2/11/2022 11:13 AM
34 None, Acceptable.2/11/2022 12:59 AM
35 Fantastic idea. Making public transit more affordable and incentivizing the TAP system and
mobile tickets. I do not think this has to be paired with eliminating cash options.
2/10/2022 9:49 PM
36 Keep senior rate low 2/10/2022 8:59 PM
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37 Savings always help, traveling in the Los Angeles area is expensive.2/10/2022 8:17 PM
38 It'll be a hug help for me because I live paycheck to paycheck.2/10/2022 5:30 PM
39 I like the idea because it is cheaper.2/10/2022 4:45 PM
40 Takes care of the regular riders with a budget, but what about that senior fare?! That Senior
fare makes the difference between me getting out, and not.
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
41 Make it in line with a $1 CASH fare 2/10/2022 2:14 PM
42 not much different 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
43 lower costs are always beneficial 2/10/2022 2:02 PM
44 I strongly support lowering it to $1 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
45 A reasonable amount and may encourage more ridership.2/9/2022 10:04 PM
46 Cheaper is better for all but this didn’t address removing cash fare option - and not much of an
incentive either - that’s not the reason people won’t have a tap card
2/9/2022 10:02 PM
47 This can be good for riders.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
48 Again, you want to reduce the fare? Reduce the cash fare too. Rides should be 75 cents for
adults over 18, 50 cents for kids 12-17 and 25 cents for seniors, whether they are physically
challenged or not.
2/9/2022 6:21 PM
49 I’m a senior? $.50 is a fair fare! 2/9/2022 5:47 PM
50 Reducing the price of public transportation is always good, even though I don't use this pass.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
51 lower fares sound good to me.2/9/2022 4:39 PM
52 .2/9/2022 4:08 PM
53 It should be lower. So many people have lost jobs or become underemployed. All while you've
been making us spend extra money to buy these new plastic cards of yours. And you started
charging to ride the bus again way too soon.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
54 Since it is only a 10 cent difference, rounding it down to an exact $1 may make it more
enticing to potential customers. A price of $1.10 may make people think "why won't they just
make it $1?"
2/9/2022 1:41 PM
55 Public transit should be free or at least as inexpensive as possible.2/9/2022 10:01 AM
56 Those who can afford it would not be affected by this change.2/9/2022 9:56 AM
57 Keep it affordable.2/9/2022 7:58 AM
58 This saves a lot of money.2/8/2022 8:08 PM
59 If your keeping g the contact less payment then KEEP IT AT A DOLLAR 2/8/2022 6:06 PM
60 Very good impact on reducing that regular single ride fare.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
61 It will encourage people to ride big blue bus.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
62 Anything that reduces the cost to utilize public transit is beneficial.2/7/2022 11:10 PM
63 Help everybody 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
64 This seems fair and logical.2/7/2022 10:47 PM
65 Make it free! You already get most of your money otherwise as it is.2/7/2022 9:45 PM
66 Most people do have a dollar available.2/7/2022 9:07 PM
67 I've been short ten cents before.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
68 I didn't know I was paying $1.10 for a TAP fare on the BBB.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
69 Would make more sense if it was payment with cash as to avoid the hassle of having loose
change with one’s self for payment.
2/7/2022 5:14 PM
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70 PANDEMIC times, majority of people are poor.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
71 This makes good sense economically since we are all tightening our belts due to increases
elsewhere
2/7/2022 2:54 PM
72 I have to take 4 busses to get to and from work. It adds up 2/7/2022 2:28 PM
73 Many people appreciate lower fares.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
74 I already pay $1 per ride and I think it would be more impactful for this fare to be reduced by
$.25 or $.50. Currently this doesn’t seem to make a difference.
2/7/2022 2:07 PM
75 I'm a senior.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
76 Low income people should pay nothing to ride.2/7/2022 1:46 PM
77 Senior 2/7/2022 1:35 PM
78 All fares should be free.2/7/2022 1:21 PM
79 Reducing the fare from $1.10 to $1.00 is more affordable for working class. Most riders are
middle working class.
2/7/2022 1:00 PM
80 I am willing to pay more so fare reduction is not exciting to me, especially if this diminishes
service.
2/7/2022 12:59 PM
81 Fare should go back to .75 2/7/2022 12:43 PM
82 Many times, riders who do not have coins on hand end up having to round up to the next dollar
with their bills, but reducing fares to $1 would eliminate this issue (in case not everything goes
mobile)!
2/7/2022 12:41 PM
83 $1 is better for simplicity's sake and extremely reasonable.2/7/2022 12:34 PM
84 Currently is $1 right?2/7/2022 12:24 PM
85 easier to deal with, to remember, etc, yet if you require tap cards, hardly makes a difference.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
86 Our economy is bouncing back, and the fair should reflect a pause in inflation.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
87 Why put an extra centavos (e.g. 0.25 ). Just do the $1 per ride.2/7/2022 11:43 AM
88 Should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
89 Is the ride being reduced just because there is a requirement to have a tap card now? The fare
should go to 1.25 to ensure driver benefits and equipment upgrades and consistent with
inflation. Make other city services that residents use exclusively cheaper (water, trash) than
bus rides into the city.
2/7/2022 11:35 AM
90 This price fits more in my weekly budget.2/7/2022 11:32 AM
91 I like the $1.00 fare 2/7/2022 11:23 AM
92 I would greatly appreciate any and all discounts on the fare!2/7/2022 11:11 AM
93 I think most people don’t carry change and thus would have to insert $2.2/7/2022 11:07 AM
94 Easier fare at simple rates is good 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
95 It depends I care for my grandkids (school age) & 4 fares are expensive 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
96 I find the current fare reasonable.2/7/2022 11:04 AM
97 I feel like people who prepare there ticket ahead of time and constantly reload there mobile tap
card should get to pay a lower wage
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
98 Less expensive fares are amazing. They enable riders to chose Big Blue Bus more often!2/7/2022 11:01 AM
99 Very good!😋2/7/2022 11:01 AM
100 Good, easier to keep track of fare amount.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
101 It’s already a $1 on the app.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
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102 Better, but still does not dismiss that fact that tal only is incredibly inconvenient for most
people.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
103 Math majors (not!) thank you.2/7/2022 10:58 AM
104 I thought I was already $1 though.2/7/2022 10:55 AM
105 Should’ve already been $1 like it is on the ticket app.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
106 This reduction is good.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
107 I routinely take the bus because it’s my only means of getting around. Compared to Uber/Lyft,
the bus is more economical.
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
108 Then you should not be raising the disabled rates!2/7/2022 10:49 AM
109 It would help a lot because money don’t have exact change and if a person would carry $1 it
would be much easier than carrying change to reload or buy a ticket
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
110 Amazing idea, it should be a flat number, without including cents as an add on. This is why the
BBB should take cash, so you can just walk on with a $1 bill. Who carries around coins
anymore? I don’t even carry cash.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
111 More accessible for people!!! :D 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
112 I thought it was already at $1?2/7/2022 10:47 AM
113 Any form of rounded currency makes things easier for everyone.2/7/2022 10:45 AM
114 Sometimes I need to take more than one bus so it can get expensive!2/7/2022 10:43 AM
115 No change required more important when it's cash but even number still nice.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
116 Pandemic has definitely decreased income for a lot of us, and saving money wherever we can
helps.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
117 WHERE CAN RIDERS EASILY LOAD TAP???? BBB no longer sells thru library or stores.
Even BBB office in Santa Monica does Not refill tap. No help at metro tap stations! Ugh. The
only people who can refill tap are computer savvy! Again leaving out the poor and elderly!
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
118 Should be free, the city/state can afford public transit but the people cannot 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
119 I’ll easily know how many rides I have purchased when loading my TAP card.2/7/2022 10:41 AM
120 I think the current fare the providing service that the big blue bus offers for is more than fair for
the ride.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
121 Among other benefits, this makes the fare simpler to remember!2/7/2022 10:39 AM
122 Why should a TAP card user be penalized and have to pay more of than someone paying a
single cash share?
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
123 Should be free. The closer to free the better.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
124 Meaningless 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
125 Large advocate for this 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
126 $0.15 won't make a difference to me.2/7/2022 10:35 AM
127 Easier to understand $1 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
128 It is currently $1.25, NOT $1.10 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
129 Round even number is better 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
130 Should be free 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
131 The ten cents makes for a odd figure to pay/extra coins.2/7/2022 10:28 AM
132 That even amount is a great way to be able afford the bus.2/7/2022 10:14 AM
133 Reducing fare means easier access for poor folks who have no car 2/6/2022 9:54 PM
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134 Should be free 2/5/2022 7:26 AM
135 I think that’s a good fare, even dollar.2/4/2022 2:41 PM
136 The ten cent difference doesn't matter if you are forcing customers to buy and charge a TAP
card. Oftentimes it's difficult to fully spend the fare on a TAP card, meaning consumers lose
money in the end.
2/3/2022 7:41 AM
137 It's not much money, but rounding it down to $1 makes the math easier when purchasing
stored value on a TAP card.
2/2/2022 9:23 PM
138 I thought I already pay $1.00 (even though I am 74)2/2/2022 2:59 PM
139 Inflation is hurting people, working people especially.2/2/2022 9:53 AM
140 I'm all for reducing prices.2/1/2022 4:53 PM
141 Make it free if you want people to actually use it the cash or card is too much hassle and
deters riders
2/1/2022 10:21 AM
142 TAP and mobile tickets are for wealthier and more tech savvy people who won't care much
about a minor fare reduction.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
143 Round numbers make sense!1/31/2022 9:52 PM
144 Need to bring back cash fares & stop forcing riders to buy TAP cards. make it an OPTIONAL
item.
1/31/2022 12:14 PM
145 $1.10 fares never made sense to begin with 1/31/2022 10:54 AM
146 Makes greener public transportation more accessible. And the greater demographic that rides
seem to be POC, so making the BBB more affordable has positive impacts.
1/31/2022 8:42 AM
147 Great idea!1/30/2022 9:24 PM
148 If customers do not have a TAP card, it will avoid the necessity for the customer to carry
change.
1/30/2022 12:38 PM
149 It's a simpler fair and I found it much easier to navigate that way 1/30/2022 2:46 AM
150 It seems easier to just round it out.1/28/2022 1:52 PM
151 While I am not in favor of eliminating fares completely, a low, equitable fare makes transit
affordable, while at the same time, can foster a sense of ownership so patrons feel that it is
their system and that they should use it and take care of it.
1/27/2022 11:35 PM
152 And it would also be helpful to allow that dollar to be paid in cash 1/27/2022 5:38 PM
153 While I am glad that it is a rounded number now, all single ride fare should remain at $1.25,
regardless of type of payment.
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
154 Don’t think it really matters. Either charge what you need to break even or just waive all fares.
Everyone rides for free. Ridership goes up and then can charge in future if need to.
1/27/2022 4:54 PM
155 It's very annoying to count an extra dime or 10 cents. An even dollar is soooo much easier for
everyone, especially if you don't have change to put into a vending machine!!
1/27/2022 4:53 PM
156 What are tourists supposed to do in order to ride the bus? For many years when there were
cash fares, many of them utilized the BBB.
1/27/2022 3:37 PM
157 Will really help to have no more spare change like a quarter or half of that 1/27/2022 2:55 PM
158 On my tokentransit app it charges me a dollar already so yeah but I rather pay a 1.00 vs 1.25 1/27/2022 2:42 PM
159 This is an excellent idea given that it is much easier to manage fares that are rounded to the
nearest dollar.
1/27/2022 2:39 PM
160 May encourage more people to ride. Iys nice to see a reduction in price of such an important
service.
1/27/2022 2:19 PM
161 Why not collect the extra 10 cents if it’s digital? It’s no extra bother to pay. 1.10 is still super
cheap.
1/27/2022 2:18 PM
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162 Inflation is happening across the board any reduction in price is helpful.1/27/2022 2:02 PM
163 This is actually really funny. In a time of extreme inflation, BBB is proposing to lower rates to
their like 2009 levels? I
1/27/2022 2:00 PM
164 Mostly low income riders so keep fare low 1/27/2022 2:00 PM
165 Making pubic transport more affordable is always a good thing, and the simplicity of the $1 fee
can make a considerable difference to lower-income residents.
1/27/2022 1:22 PM
166 Reasonable and easy to remember 1/27/2022 1:08 PM
167 Encourage passengers to use Tap Card or mobile ticket instead of cash. You guys should
charge passengers more for paying cash on board.
1/27/2022 9:19 AM
168 I am concerned that reducing fares would have a negative long-term affect on BBB's a funding
and could lead to reduced bus frequencies on many of the existing lines. Also, the current
fares are extremely affordable; if the fares are a concern BBB should instead investigate low-
income assistance options.
1/27/2022 8:48 AM
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Packet Pg. 1393 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
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68.18%480
22.59%159
6.25%44
0.57%4
0.57%4
1.85%13
Q4 Provide a free Big Blue Bus to Big Blue Bus transfer with the purchase
of a Single Ride or multi-ride pass, valid up to two hours from the time of
boarding the first bus for a one-way trip
Answered: 704 Skipped: 11
TOTAL 704
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Common sense, serves the public well and saves people money. Good idea, seems generous
and thoughtful of BBB so something to like and praise ~!~
2/17/2022 2:01 PM
2 It should be a true two hour pass and not restricted only to other lines.2/17/2022 8:14 AM
3 Today I am using 2 Buses in one direction and need to pay double 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
4 Great thanks, the small fee for transfer was a hassle to have on tap 2/16/2022 3:23 PM
5 Shows we want to help people make the connections to get to their final destinations with ease 2/16/2022 2:18 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
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and economy.
6 Free transfers are a good idea. It woulda been nice to have free or at least cheaper transfers
all these years Ive been riding these buses.
2/15/2022 2:52 PM
7 Nope 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
8 This is another very generous program for all commuters, and I think ridership would increase
by commuters knowing that there is one free route to their next Big Blue destination.
2/15/2022 9:24 AM
9 Loss to BBB worth increase in convenience and good will for passengers.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
10 Only question - automatically provide, or upon request? I'd recommend upon request but this
seems like a good way to encourage people to use BBB more frequently and to make it more
convenient given potential need to transfer to get from Point A to B.
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
11 That's how modern systems work. You can't have a bus route that serves every trip. Transfers
should be built in to the system.
2/14/2022 9:02 PM
12 isn't that how it's always been (or used to be?)2/14/2022 7:16 PM
13 That's fair 2/14/2022 6:17 PM
14 excellent 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
15 Often takes two or three transfers to get to a destination, and older people and people with
disabilities can't do often long walks between buses. Also would then be in line with other
major bus lines' policy.
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
16 Not something I do.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
17 Not enough time in between.2/14/2022 3:50 PM
18 s/b easier for folks to get tap to allow extras and not just single fares, like day passes, or
monthly passes evem w/stored value
2/14/2022 3:23 PM
19 I am taking municipal busses for transfer it will help so much saving .2/14/2022 2:48 PM
20 That would be a lot easier for people, so they don't have to pay as much for just going to one
place. Mostly people here have to take 2 or more buses to get where they need to go. It didn't
seem fair we always had to pay for every single bus whenever we need 2 or 3 just for one trip.
The Metro buses have always sold transfers, but not the BBB buses for some reason.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
21 Allows passengers to save money instead of paying for transferring to another BBB bus.2/14/2022 1:26 PM
22 I definitely think that providing free transfers from a BBB bus to the next BBB bus is an
excellent idea because I personally think that it’s absolutely absurd that people have to pay
again (another full fare) if their bus route requires a transfer.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
23 This is too complicated for me to follow with my already pre-loaded card.2/14/2022 12:55 PM
24 It was a bad decision to get rid of transfers many years ago. Only took how long for you guys
to wake up?
2/14/2022 12:24 PM
25 this would definitely encourage more ridership, since most people aren't just going down the
street and will need to transfer at least once to reach their destination.
2/14/2022 12:08 PM
26 this is just convenient 2/14/2022 11:11 AM
27 Not sure how it works, but sounds good 2/14/2022 10:56 AM
28 This would make a difference if you accepted cash fares.2/14/2022 10:41 AM
29 The transfer policy has been a disaster for years now, ever since they did away with intra-
agency (not interagency) transfers. They should go back to the old system. And again, the
purchase of a Single Ride or multi-ride pass WITH CASH should again be an option. (You can
demand exact change, drivers don't have to touch the cash.)
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
30 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
31 This is confusing 2/14/2022 10:26 AM
32 Great idea!2/14/2022 10:16 AM
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33 This is a great idea! The current transfer system makes no sense.2/14/2022 10:14 AM
34 Free transfers make a grid-based transit system work. It’s about time!2/14/2022 10:08 AM
35 Finally! I often thought it was ridiculous to keep paying every time I transferred from bus to
bus. Other cities have a free transfer system. Why not big blue?
2/13/2022 9:42 AM
36 Would like to see this window expanded 2/11/2022 11:13 AM
37 BBB needs to allow Passengers to have 2 Free Transfers, instead of one Use.2/11/2022 12:59 AM
38 This is standard practice for every public transit I've been on that I'm aware of!2/10/2022 9:49 PM
39 This is at least 10 years overdue, I can’t say I’m anything but pumped 2/10/2022 9:01 PM
40 Makes sense 2/10/2022 8:59 PM
41 I usually need to ride several buses on a single day, so unlimited passes are best for me.2/10/2022 8:17 PM
42 I resented the no transfer policy, especially if I had to catch at least one other bus and one of
the connections was short in duration.
2/10/2022 7:52 PM
43 That is a great initiative - many times I’ve boarded the wrong pass by accident and then had to
repay the fee, or if you need to change buses to reach one destination it’s unfair to have to pay
two tickets. Love this!
2/10/2022 6:42 PM
44 I take two busses on my way to work and two on my way back home.2/10/2022 5:30 PM
45 Some trips take several transfers to get to my destination. Transfers would allow me to travel
more often.
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
46 How is this going to be implimented? Everybody is riding for free anyway ...2/10/2022 2:14 PM
47 people should pay for each time 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
48 Yes!2/10/2022 2:02 PM
49 Works in other cities and should improve number of passengers 2/10/2022 11:26 AM
50 i hope this gets past. you will get more riders because metro is 25 cents for senors 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
51 I strongly support free transfers to other buses like metro, big blue bus, etc.2/10/2022 3:20 AM
52 It would simplify bus Transportion 2/9/2022 11:45 PM
53 Positive since they have cut down some services such as the no 2 bus that used to go to
Venice. Think it should at least start at Ashland or hill and main st where it did at one tim
2/9/2022 11:28 PM
54 Will encourage people to leave their car home and take public transportation 2/9/2022 10:04 PM
55 Those stopped in July 2018, so that would be a good idea.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
56 #4 is very confusing. The hours limiting time of use ; may get to be very complicated to riders.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
57 Glad to hear this might be RE-introduced/brought back as I was very upset when transfers
were stopped. Now bring back the transfers to Metro buses also!!
2/9/2022 5:11 PM
58 I like this idea.2/9/2022 4:39 PM
59 Consider extending the time to 3 hours 2/9/2022 4:08 PM
60 My trips to school always take two busses, and I can imagine that paying essentially double to
reach one destination can be expensive to many people.
2/9/2022 1:41 PM
61 Metro has this and it is awesome! And you don't even need to purchase a pass. Just have it
kick in with your first TAP tap.
2/9/2022 1:24 PM
62 This is a positive change as long as it is fully publicized when adopted 2/9/2022 12:21 PM
63 SF Muni provides a transfer ticket good for up to 2 hours after boarding a bus and I would be
very supportive of this change
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
64 Strongly support as buses do not always arrive on time, forcing some passengers to find
alternative routes to their next destination which may take a lot of time.
2/9/2022 9:56 AM
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65 this will help when transfers are needed to complete a trip 2/9/2022 8:59 AM
66 Antelope Valley Transit Authority and LA Metro have practiced something similar.2/8/2022 8:08 PM
67 Also, very good impact above.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
68 Some people do take several buses for their commute.2/8/2022 10:16 AM
69 Perhaps 3 hrs, rather than 2 2/8/2022 8:27 AM
70 Simplify the process 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
71 Save money 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
72 This used to be the norm in the past but was later cancelled. It sees fair that BBB paying
customers get a free transfer to other BBB buses within a certain time limit
2/7/2022 10:47 PM
73 Same as other LA busses 2/7/2022 10:04 PM
74 I mean, wasn't it that way in the 1980s? Paper transfers. Only pay was transfer to RTD.2/7/2022 9:45 PM
75 Finally.2/7/2022 9:10 PM
76 It is far more value an incentive to ride 2/7/2022 9:07 PM
77 The way it once was, but paper free?2/7/2022 7:42 PM
78 This should be integrated with TAP cards somehow.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
79 I don't use a 2-hour pass often.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
80 I try to only ride BBB so free transfers from one line to another will be great 2/7/2022 6:39 PM
81 read reasons ☝ above, mendacity.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
82 I like the idea and the short term for transfer usage 2/7/2022 2:54 PM
83 That’s how it was in the past.2/7/2022 2:30 PM
84 Same agency. Very helpful as a work commuter.2/7/2022 2:28 PM
85 I recall it being that way decades ago and liked it.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
86 This would be great!! I usually only ride the bus for 10 mins and transfer to another bus that I
ride for 10 more mins. I transfer just to get to the place I want to go (home from work) and it’s
been pretty irritating that I have to pay extra just because I’m changing to a different bus.
2/7/2022 2:07 PM
87 It's rare for me to ride more than one BBB line for any given trip, but if I did, this could be
useful.
2/7/2022 1:54 PM
88 It should never have been discontinued.2/7/2022 1:49 PM
89 Yes! This should have been done years ago. :) Your final destination should cost the same if
it’s one stop or across town.
2/7/2022 1:46 PM
90 This is how is used to be.2/7/2022 1:35 PM
91 Just make them fareless and you won’t have to create these complicated systems.2/7/2022 1:21 PM
92 This should add to the ease of using the system and to the convenience of many passengers.2/7/2022 1:17 PM
93 Transfer should be all day 2/7/2022 12:37 PM
94 Free transfer is a kindness, a reasonable expecrarion and helpful to those who travel by bus
regularly
2/7/2022 12:34 PM
95 Transfers would be appreciated!2/7/2022 12:13 PM
96 Just like before so that would be awesome 2/7/2022 12:08 PM
97 given bus transfer timing, it is a help 2/7/2022 12:03 PM
98 My school aged children would benefit from this benefit, their daily commutes includes the
usage of two BBB lines and 4 routes.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
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99 I didn’t know you ever stopped providing them. Bring it back.2/7/2022 12:02 PM
100 YES YOU NEED THIS 2/7/2022 11:53 AM
101 All transit should be free. Transfer fare policies are confusing and prohibitive. This at least
makes it cheaper but it’s not a be all end all solution.
2/7/2022 11:52 AM
102 It makes sense to have free transfer rides with the same bus, unless these riding people are
doing JOY RIDE, then it is NOT GOOD.
2/7/2022 11:43 AM
103 Free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
104 Free transfers make sense, including to and from LA Metro.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
105 Encourages ridership!2/7/2022 11:32 AM
106 I think that this is awesome, and very "green" as it will encourage more people to use the bus
than cars if all they need is to zoom locally to meet with friends or an errand. It would be nice
to ride the BBB any which way for $1 and up to 2 hrs cause sometimes you get on the wrong
bus on accident.
2/7/2022 11:23 AM
107 Sometimes you need more than one bus and it would really help to not have to pay for a
transfer
2/7/2022 11:17 AM
108 History and custom says that when you buy a ride you get a transfer, so that is what i expect.2/7/2022 11:13 AM
109 I would really appreciate it!2/7/2022 11:11 AM
110 Transit logistics often requires taking different lines to do errands, etc.2/7/2022 11:10 AM
111 This should have been in place since the last rate hike went in place 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
112 Allow the same with other operators (ie: Culver City Bus) who accept TAP cards as well.2/7/2022 11:04 AM
113 I think this is very positive but when I take the bus I take it to and from work, I think it should
be more than two hours but less than 24, that way I can actually use it when I get out of work.
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
114 Many people across Los Angeles may have to take multiple busses to travel to one place.
BBB to BBB transfers that are free may help in reducing the amount spent on trips in the long
run.
2/7/2022 11:02 AM
115 The service is a bit rag tag lately so please consider a 3 hour window on the BB transfer. One
way in a day only.
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
116 Transfers are in every transit system across the country. This is first time I’ve ever seen no
transfers . Anc to charge for transfers is wrong. If you take two busses to get somewhere it’s a
bad transit system and it’s an insult. If you have to take the bus it should be one fare to your
destination. More people would ride the bus. Sometimes I have to take 3 busses to get to
where I need to go. I don’t know how many times I have to walk 1/2 a mile. Take a bus to
another bus that doesn’t align so wait time involved. And then walk 1/2 a mile to get to where
I’m going. Transit is deplorable in Los Angeles. The BBB had better during Covid than the last
6 months.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
117 This would not increase anything. Literally hardly any one would utilize this.2/7/2022 10:58 AM
118 Helps communities 2/7/2022 10:58 AM
119 Its absolutely about time, again. Not everyone uses the system point-to-point.2/7/2022 10:58 AM
120 Instead of 2 hours make it 8 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
121 Great idea I take two BBB a few times a week and it will encourage me to take BBB more
often.
2/7/2022 10:53 AM
122 Accepts tgat payment is made ti get from pt A to B nit how did BBB routes occur. May
encourage more use of BBB
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
123 ONLY if you stop giving FREE RIDES. Far too many homeless ride who give a song and
dance why they dont have tap cards!!! Causes unsafe conditions for the rest of us!!
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
124 I agree with the free transfer but the time should be 3 hours. Buses take a while to arrive with a
30 minutes gap until the next one
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
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125 Benefits the consumer, and probably doesn’t make BBB lose that much money. Seems like a
great idea.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
126 30 minutes is way too short and often means paying because a bus was late. 2 hours is much
more reasonable.
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
127 Creates more accessibility as it becomes more affordable and reasonable since the metro
already does this too
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
128 This would help in cases like mine. Lost my senior tap card, waiting through the delayed time
of replacing, having to use a regular tap card. Thus a much higher cost!
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
129 Not enough. Fr make it free. The city is rich make the right priorities busriders are poor
5$adayto and from work means 60$a month 700 a year for a person that makes lowest or no
income.
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
130 I think transfer should be 30-40 mins after rider departs the bus. Riders would tap again before
departing the bus. Please refer to Seoul metro system in South Korea. Their transfer system is
incredible.
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
131 I don’t drive and depend on BBB to get around and an often transferring. At the moment I have
1/2 an hour between rides to do so - this works very well.
2/7/2022 10:45 AM
132 this helps with consistency across agencies such as the metro.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
133 When Blue Bus stopped transfers a while back, I ended up paying so much for bus rides.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
134 Makes sense to do this.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
135 Overdue, yes 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
136 Metro does it, so to ease confusion it would be helpful to enact a similar policy on BBB
(understanding its only for BBB to BBB; similar policies as other transit systems in LA just
helps avoid confusion)
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
137 This reduces costs immensely for people traveling within the city, but since most riders are
coming to the city or traveling through it, I am unsure of the total effect.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
138 I like a discounted transfer Fair simply because an example writing the 14 to Bundy to pick up
the two to Santa Monica shouldn't cost me $2 if I'm getting off of one bus and onto the second
bus inside 15-20 minutes. Thank you
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
139 No free rides 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
140 I’m a senior. If I wanna stop off and go somewhere it doubles my price. That doesn’t happen
on the metro.. It didn’t when they charged.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
141 I think this should have been done earlier, this makes a lot more sense and helps many many
people.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
142 The full price transfer is an outrageous price to pay. It’s essentially a regressive tax on anyone
who has to take more than one line.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
143 Join the rest of the world 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
144 Beneficial for those transferring. Most major systems around the world have had transfers in
place for decades!!
2/7/2022 10:37 AM
145 Have been requesting free transfers for years! Glad BBB is catching up with best practice Not
clear how the transfer works with TAP card, though.
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
146 Makes sense to me but doesn't impact.2/7/2022 10:36 AM
147 It's a tax payer service so it should be used for that purpose 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
148 I'm not a SM resident 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
149 Many trips require more than one bus and lack of transfer can make BBB cost more than
metro
2/7/2022 10:33 AM
150 The transfer process was difficult to understand. This is much better.2/7/2022 10:32 AM
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151 Metro does it, why not BBB. Also some of the lines/trips are so short it’s not worth the $1 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
152 Should be free 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
153 Transfers should be standard, good idea 2/7/2022 10:28 AM
154 MTA does this and it really saves many dollars that they don't have.2/7/2022 10:14 AM
155 It can be very expensive to transfer from bus to bus when trying to get places via BBB. This
policy ensures everyone has access to the places they need to get to.
2/6/2022 9:54 PM
156 Makes riding more affordable 2/5/2022 9:35 AM
157 Encourage ridership 2/5/2022 7:26 AM
158 I think that would be wonderful and often allowing for wider travel in the city!!2/4/2022 2:41 PM
159 Again, the big issue for me is the inconvenience of a fully contactless system.2/3/2022 7:41 AM
160 Metro already does this. It's a big help when I make more transfers than I'd initially expected.2/2/2022 9:23 PM
161 Good for budget for us seniors on fixed income.2/2/2022 2:59 PM
162 Inflation is hurting people, working people especially.2/2/2022 9:53 AM
163 I remember when you did away with this, and it made me furious then. If Metro can offer it, you
definitely should too. I have no idea why you decided to get rid of it, except because of
~capitalism~.
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
164 This should have been done many, many years ago. BBB not having a transfer fee option
between its own buses has been extremely inconvenient and bizarre the entire two decades
I've been using this system.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
165 Encourages more people to take the bus 1/31/2022 9:52 PM
166 Many people need to ride 2 buses even just within Santa Monica city limits. 2 fares is not
justified to get to one place. That is needing 4 fares to get someplace then home again.
1/31/2022 12:14 PM
167 sometimes you need to take multiple busses to get to one location and then get back. its
happened 4 busses turned into 8 buses which times that. VERY expensive ride for 1 trip.
1/31/2022 11:22 AM
168 Finally!!!! Thank you!1/31/2022 10:54 AM
169 OK idea. Bus driver busy. Transfers take time. Provide tap card.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
170 It is not the passenger's fault if you do not run a direct route between their point of origin and
their destination. If they have a Metro pass, it is not their fault that you have different routes,
and a different fare structure.
1/30/2022 12:38 PM
171 This is common with most transit lines and should be on BBB as well 1/30/2022 2:46 AM
172 Just like old times! :)1/28/2022 1:52 PM
173 It is silly for someone to have to pay twice if the bus near them does not go where they want
to go.
1/28/2022 10:57 AM
174 I’m wondering about that I ride metro and I enjoy those 2 hours.1/28/2022 6:49 AM
175 Most bus passengers need to travel on more than one bus to complete their trips, so this will
help a lot. Question is, can a passenger do a round trip under your proposal? What if the
passenger transfers from Big Blue Bus to Metro and then to Big Blue Bus?
1/27/2022 11:35 PM
176 Used to do that many years ago. Sometimes only need transfer for very short distance.1/27/2022 8:17 PM
177 I think that it need some clarification in terms of cost 1/27/2022 7:49 PM
178 Yes, public transportation is best when you can access a network of routes, not just one in and
out line.
1/27/2022 5:38 PM
179 This is the way it used to be!!1/27/2022 5:34 PM
180 Transfers are okay on TAP as a promo of converting people to use TAP instead of cash
payment, but it should not be use as a leverage for an all or nothing approach for eliminating
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
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cash payments.
181 Yes, no brainer.1/27/2022 4:54 PM
182 That should be the way as that is what is done for the metro lines. Why should riders have to
pay more to connect to another bus on the same line that may only be a couple of miles away.
1/27/2022 4:53 PM
183 Gives Riders Options of Transferring To Another BIG Blue Bus.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
184 I agree with this option as well. LA Metro has utilized a two hour transfer along with several
other transit agencies in North America as a customer friendly choice with great success.
1/27/2022 2:39 PM
185 Transfers never should've gone away from a marketing and PR standpoint. BBB set up a grid
system that was predicated on transfers to complete journeys. Telling the public that the
change only impacted 10% of riders said that those riders didn't matter.
1/27/2022 2:00 PM
186 Should benefit individuals getting to worksite , medical or social service site 1/27/2022 2:00 PM
187 PLEASE DO THIS! As a senior citizen on a fixed income, it become so costly to pay full fare
for every multi-bus trip.
1/27/2022 1:18 PM
188 Reasonable and helpful, especially for low income riders.1/27/2022 1:08 PM
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13.16%92
13.59%95
36.77%257
14.74%103
7.58%53
14.16%99
Q5 Discontinue selling the Regular Day Pass to simplify fares and better
align products with customer preferences.
Answered: 699 Skipped: 16
TOTAL 699
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 With only online fares sold I don't see the need to discontinue the day pass. While most people
will use monthly passes or transfers it should still be there for those who need to run multiple
errands in one day or go on an excursion, without having them to buy individual fares.
2/17/2022 8:14 AM
2 Is hard to get the day pass now since you do not sell it on the bus, so is a good idea 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 This should be paired with a fare cap policy, so transit dependent riders are not
disproportionately hurt
2/16/2022 9:35 PM
4 Don't use.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
5 I don't know what the data about users of the Regular Day Pass was.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
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6 If you don't currently sell any day passes, then that is fine. However I would prefer to generate
revenue from the day pass and not give free transfers.
2/15/2022 3:42 PM
7 I don't think this is a good idea. It sounds weird not to sell a day pass for buses.2/15/2022 2:52 PM
8 Simplification sounds positive but it seems to be something that would be popular for visitors.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
9 Yes unless this pass is deemed an incentive to get people to use BBB who may not do so
otherwise (e.g. tourists/visitors).
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
10 Not favorable to tourists.2/14/2022 7:22 PM
11 day pass seemingly makes sense for our many tourists 2/14/2022 7:16 PM
12 The meaning of relevance 2/14/2022 6:17 PM
13 nope 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
14 transient a lot first time rider 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
15 I don't know how often Day Passes are used, but they might be used by tourists (many
tourists in Santa Monica!).
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
16 Something to be determined by users of same.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
17 I generally think keeping fares as simple as possible benefits the vast majority.2/14/2022 4:00 PM
18 Anything to make things simple Do it.2/14/2022 3:50 PM
19 needed by too many, at leeast allow MTA to give us that option at train stations & all levels of
fares
2/14/2022 3:23 PM
20 I think people use day passes pretty often, so it's a bad idea. I don't believe that no customers
ever prefer to buy a day pass. If you can't get a day pass that means everyone has to get
some other pass and pay more money? That doesn't seem right.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
21 I personally think that the BBB should continue the BBB Daily Bus Pass because the City of
Santa Monica has a lot of tourists that are in Santa Monica for one day only. I think it will be
beneficial for Santa Monica’s tourist industry to keep the one day bus pass.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
22 What if someone is here for only a day?2/14/2022 1:00 PM
23 The day pass is a great option 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
24 What about customers who take multiple buses? Won't they need to pay constantly?2/14/2022 12:05 PM
25 don't know what day pass entails 2/14/2022 11:11 AM
26 I do find the variety of fare products to be confusing. I basically just ignore whatever they are
and just load money onto my tap card when needed.
2/14/2022 11:11 AM
27 Day Passes are good for tourists, students and seniors running around town.2/14/2022 10:39 AM
28 Keep the regular day pass or not, the main problem is that there is no point of purchase cash
option for a fare.
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
29 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
30 Not an issue for regular riders but not for people taking the bus one time or visitors 2/14/2022 10:26 AM
31 I like day passes for occasional riders. Have you considered a fare-capping system like the
one San Diego just introduced?
2/14/2022 10:08 AM
32 I don’t purchase this fare option. But this might be a useful pass for tourists, short term
visitors.
2/13/2022 9:42 AM
33 Some people need to buy day passes who don't need to ride the BBB every day. Not
everybody wants to buy your monthly passes, and it's so much easier to buy one pass for the
day than paying for every single ride. People who visit me from out of town also prefer using a
day pass sometimes: they stay for a short time but ride buses many times a day when they're
here. Every bus system everywhere else has day passes as an option, so it's just a bizarre
2/11/2022 3:31 PM
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idea for BBB to stop selling these. Of course people use them and will need to keep using
them.
34 could work if free transfer 2/11/2022 7:43 AM
35 Keep Day Passes! Continue to Sell At BBB Store or Over Phone 2/11/2022 12:59 AM
36 My dad used the regular day pass and I think tourists use them. I don't see the value of this --
doesn't simplify much.
2/10/2022 9:49 PM
37 I usually need to ride several buses on a single day, this this proposal could be costly for days
without a longer term pass.
2/10/2022 8:17 PM
38 Life is already complicated enough, and getting more complicated all the time. Simplification is
generally always a better move.
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
39 "better align products with customer preferences" Where do you get this from? Just sounds
like a "buzz" phrase ...
2/10/2022 2:14 PM
40 should simplify lineup 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
41 No, do not discontinue this or any other fare option. There is no cost for BBB to continue
offering it
2/10/2022 2:02 PM
42 day pass is good for you have a lot of errands in one day 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
43 The regular day pass should stay the same by using the loaded tap card or the magnetic stripe
paper pass
2/10/2022 3:20 AM
44 Have not used, so have no opinion 2/9/2022 10:30 PM
45 I think having the day pass encourages people to use the bus, thus decreasing auto traffic.2/9/2022 10:04 PM
46 For someone who is traveling, the one day pass could be a good thing to keep.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
47 Continue selling the regular day pass for people who want it.2/9/2022 6:21 PM
48 The Regular Day Pass is something I have never used. (I never even heard about it. Keep
seniors like me on the $.50 fee. Regular riders know more about all this than I do
2/9/2022 5:47 PM
49 I don't know what this is exactly.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
50 . One day pass may be all that's needed (ex. someone in town for only a day)2/9/2022 4:08 PM
51 You should not be stopping sale of any existing passes. That only takes away options from
people and forces them to buy more expensive passes they don't need and give you more
money. This is hugely unfair.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
52 More options for bus riders is always better.2/9/2022 1:41 PM
53 If free 2hr transfers become a thing, then Day Passes are unnecessary.2/9/2022 1:24 PM
54 The day pass is useful for tourists/visitors to BBB's service area 2/9/2022 12:21 PM
55 I would need to understand who this would impact and whether it would increase the cost of
transportation for people who can't afford it
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
56 this hurts tourists who travel just for one day 2/9/2022 8:59 AM
57 A Day Pass is ideal for someone who has to transfer often. Furthermore, an EZ Transit Day
Pass would be ideal for one who has to transfer between agencies often.
2/8/2022 8:08 PM
58 Huge inconvenience 2/8/2022 6:06 PM
59 That concerns me about the regular day pass fare of $4.00. Please do something about that.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
60 Unless you can buy one that can be uploaded to your TAP card 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
61 Simplifying the fare structure is good.2/8/2022 1:51 PM
62 Good for multiple trips in a day. It is also good for visitors.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
63 Why? If someone"s car is in the shop, or a tourist just needs a 1day pass, this is the best way
to do it.
2/8/2022 8:27 AM
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64 Simplify the process 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
65 Some times use 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
66 I have never used this fare type so I can’t say how it would affect others 2/7/2022 9:58 PM
67 There should be an option to continuously ride BBB if staying in SanMo for the day.2/7/2022 9:10 PM
68 N/A 2/7/2022 9:07 PM
69 If nobody's using it, it being an option only adds to confusion.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
70 This would affect me only if it applies to a senior pass.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
71 What about people from out of town?2/7/2022 6:42 PM
72 Daily, weekly, monthly passes have never been convenient as for the purpose of saving
money.
2/7/2022 5:14 PM
73 people should be able to take a ride at their own convenience.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
74 I see many tourists using them. Tourists are always polite quiet passengers. Bbb needs to
encourage their patronage.
2/7/2022 2:28 PM
75 A day pass is great for tourists and others who plan to take numerous trips on a given day.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
76 Doesn't affect me.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
77 Bad for tourists, but I don't know how many tourists are naieve enough to ride Santa Monica
busses.
2/7/2022 1:49 PM
78 Yes. Day passes are confusing. Maybe they were for tourists?2/7/2022 1:46 PM
79 Fareless 2/7/2022 1:21 PM
80 So long as this does not have a negative effect on passengers who use the regular day pass,
it should be positive overall.
2/7/2022 1:17 PM
81 For riders who don’t continuously ride the BBB it’s an affordable option.2/7/2022 1:00 PM
82 The USA is still a cash society.2/7/2022 12:37 PM
83 not good for occasional users, tourists, etc.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
84 I would assume, this would be an inconvenience to tourists travelers who would like to explore
the city at a reasonable rate. Just imagine, if a tourist was unable to travel with ease, that
would decrease the money they'll spend exploring the city and engaging in activities to support
local businesses.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
85 Just implement the TAP Card loading for easy convenience to both drivers and the riding
commuters.
2/7/2022 11:43 AM
86 Should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
87 Aren’t these useful for tourists / visitors?2/7/2022 11:35 AM
88 Discourages riders. We need more riders not less.2/7/2022 11:32 AM
89 day pass is good for travelling students 2/7/2022 11:27 AM
90 Some bus riders may be visitors and only need day pass.2/7/2022 11:24 AM
91 If you discontinue the day pass, you should make sure that the 2hr,$1, far allows you to go
any direction within 2 hours.
2/7/2022 11:23 AM
92 what would take its place?2/7/2022 11:19 AM
93 when its complicated you worry about if you have what you need to ride the bus and you have
to interrupt the driver with question. anything that makes the system complicated or difficult to
remember or understand should be scrapped. One fare per ride all the time, cash or card. If
people buy bulk they can get a discount.
2/7/2022 11:13 AM
94 Not sure how many people use a day pass on BBB and it’s confusing with customers who 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
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brought a Metro day pass then try to use that on BBB
95 People probably find the RDP convenient, especially if they don't have a TAP card. And it's
ideal for tourists as well...
2/7/2022 11:04 AM
96 Most people who ride the bus take it to work or school, some people take more than 3 busses
and removing that means that they would have to pay more to get to school on a daily basis.
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
97 Do not abandon the 1 day disabled pass for 1.50$. Maybe that can pay for those freebees 2/7/2022 11:01 AM
98 do not discontinue stuff 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
99 I don’t like the corporate terms you’re throwing around here. “Products”? This is infrastructure.
Ideally the transit system would be free of charge to all, and at the end of the day we need to
be figuring out how to meet that goal.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
100 What would replace it? With multiple bus lines you need a day fare because you can’t buy an
affordable multi transit pass that includes them all.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
101 This isn’t helpful at all. People need day passes.2/7/2022 10:58 AM
102 Just make the day pass cheaper 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
103 I agree. Just put a couple dollars on a normal TAP card. Day pass is unnecessary unless it
was unlimited rides for a single day, that would be cool. Probably wouldn’t be used much if at
all, but it would be cool.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
104 Look at your records of frequency of using this pass. Then decide!2/7/2022 10:48 AM
105 I rarely take enough trips to justify a day pass but I know when I visit other cities it's extremely
helpful.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
106 Doesn’t make sense 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
107 BBB makes it impossible to buy fares! Where can I buy a regular 1 ride fare??.!!2/7/2022 10:43 AM
108 Not clear on what this means. I've ridden other systems that automatically charge the lowest
fare (so if you by a day passes worth of single tickets, it automatically upgrades you to a day
pass) which would be great. Either you don't have that or the day pass is so expensive that
I've never hit that threshold.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
109 Well I'm a customer and I prefer you don't. And since I've lived here for 10 years I do hope you
plan on considering my opinion.
2/7/2022 10:42 AM
110 Very generous but way too many options get confusing 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
111 The reason people don’t get a day pass if you can’t buy them on the bus. That’s why they’re
not used.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
112 There is a lot of people who only ride for one day wether it be because their car is in the shop
or theyre in town for one day, I think the Regular Day Pass is incredibly useful and beneficial to
people as they don’t have to spend more than they need.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
113 We shouldn’t punish people with higher fares for riding the bus a lot in one day.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
114 Simplify fares or just make more money from poor people 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
115 Reducing options 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
116 People that aren't from Santa Monica but visiting may prefer to have a full day pass.2/7/2022 10:36 AM
117 The day pass is usually for tourists.2/7/2022 10:33 AM
118 Keep the pass and make it easy.2/7/2022 10:32 AM
119 Day pass seems a little redundant 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
120 Not as simple as making the fare free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
121 Tourists who take the bus might be of a disadvantage - if they only need it for the entire day.2/7/2022 10:12 AM
122 I've only ever paid for single rides on the bus 2/6/2022 9:54 PM
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123 Need this 2/5/2022 7:26 AM
124 I never buy a day pass so undecided 2/4/2022 2:41 PM
125 Lots of people I know need to buy day passes because they're not riding BBB buses every
day.
2/2/2022 4:27 PM
126 Day Pass is good for tourist & others should cost no more than $5 2/2/2022 10:13 AM
127 I don't think discontinuing day passes - especially since you can only buy them digitally now I
think - is a good idea.
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
128 This is outright foolish. Severely restricting people's choices so they cannot tailor what they
purchase to their own specific situation does not benefit anyone, not even your agency's wallet
- as your potential customers will be more inclined to turn to other methods of transportation.
Lots of people need day passes, such as tourists on vacation, infrequent visitors to the city,
and locals who unexpectedly find themselves without the use of their motor vehicle for a brief
period of time. The other types of passes often are not a good deal financially in these
situations.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
129 Day passes are good 1/31/2022 12:25 PM
130 The day pass is a good idea and should be maintained.1/31/2022 12:23 PM
131 BRING BACK CASH FARES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
132 You should make daily fares cap out automatically for people using TAP cards 1/31/2022 10:54 AM
133 The regular Day Pass is quite nice for those not eligible for discounted fares in the past and
have the need to get many chores done. Paying one minimal fare for all day riding and perhaps
going in multiple directions for appointments or issues of time constraints (some
merchants/services close early or close for lunch, etc.) is a very much needed perk in
transportation.
1/31/2022 8:39 AM
134 Good, focus on tap card or smartphone bus rides, like bikes and scooters in Santa Monica.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
135 You are not allowing tourists or occasional users to use your service. I am totally against
having people have to buy a month pass or find out how to get a tap card and fill it. We should
be encouraging bus usage, not discouraging it.
1/28/2022 10:57 AM
136 I like to have available day pass when I used my Tap card 1/28/2022 6:49 AM
137 Many tourists visit Santa Monica, and it would be good to encourage them to use public transit
to get around. A day pass makes it much more simple for tourists, as well as residents with
multiple errands to run in a day.
1/27/2022 11:35 PM
138 Bad idea. Need to transfer multiple buses and not to lose my bus pass 1/27/2022 10:05 PM
139 Sometimes only use bus occasionally and day pass is useful.1/27/2022 8:17 PM
140 It would require research into how the busses are being used. If it is an option that people use
and base decisions on — e.g. bundling chores and appointments in one day
1/27/2022 5:38 PM
141 If the fare is $1 and transfers are free, then the Day Pass doesn't make sense 1/27/2022 5:34 PM
142 Not sure how to feel. Perhaps try allowing the sale online/TAP only and see if it remains
popular or time for it to go
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
143 Should Allow Options To Ride During a Day.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
144 this would help tourists if they knew about it.1/27/2022 3:37 PM
145 Nah sometimes you only need a day pass by getting rid of it you’re causing people to spend
more money that’s heinous
1/27/2022 2:42 PM
146 I use the Day Pass because I need to take two buses to get to where I usually go (and back
again). The Day Pass costs less than individual fares. But if transfers are free then I only need
one fare in each direction so the Day Pass is not needed.
1/27/2022 2:33 PM
147 I wish you would've reported data on who was using it Or broken down the question to first ask,
"Have you used the Day Pass before" _ at least you'd get input from people who use the
product and find out what they think.
1/27/2022 2:00 PM
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148 Regular riders should use weekly or monthly passes at discounted rate 1/27/2022 2:00 PM
149 PLEASE DON'T DO THIS! As a senior citizen on a fixed income, it becomes so costly to pay
full fare for every multi-bus trip or transportation needs that involve many buses on a single
day.
1/27/2022 1:18 PM
150 Having the daypass is convenient so passengers can pay 1 low fare for unlimited rides for the
day.
1/27/2022 9:19 AM
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7.90%55
7.04%49
29.31%204
19.97%139
21.26%148
14.51%101
Q6 Discontinue selling the Senior/Disable/Medicare Day Pass to simplify
fares and better align products with customer preferences.
Answered: 696 Skipped: 19
TOTAL 696
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Service to Seniors and the Disabled should be less and/or free.2/17/2022 2:01 PM
2 With only online fares sold I don't see the need to discontinue the day pass. While most people
will use monthly passes or transfers it should still be there for those who need to run multiple
errands in one day or go on an excursion, without having them to buy individual fares.
2/17/2022 8:14 AM
3 Maybe some people need it 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
4 Keep giving discounts! People deserve a break, especially those with limited incomes 2/16/2022 9:35 PM
5 Didn't feel the need for that pass/fare 2/16/2022 3:23 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
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6 I don't know what the data about users of the Regular Day Pass was.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
7 Not a good idea to not have day passes.2/15/2022 2:52 PM
8 Seems day passes would be popular. Why not?2/15/2022 5:07 AM
9 I'm a senior 2/15/2022 2:13 AM
10 careful with the senior stuff as i'm reaching that segment 2/14/2022 7:16 PM
11 seniors need this day pass put yourself in their shoes.2/14/2022 5:43 PM
12 old people should go around 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
13 Certainly would affect seniors/ etc. who are infrequent users.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
14 ADA compliance. Then remove allowing service dogs etc...2/14/2022 3:50 PM
15 see above!2/14/2022 3:23 PM
16 For disabled and senior people most definitely can't afford to be paying a ton of money for
more expensive bus passes than they need.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
17 Whatever is best for elderly and disabled 2/14/2022 2:27 PM
18 I think that seniors and people with disabilities need to have the one day pass on the BBB
because the one day bus pass will enable both seniors and people with disabilities to pay the
fare for a daily bus pass without having to pay each bus fare again and again. Both seniors
and people with disabilities are two groups of individuals that typically are on fixed income and
don’t have many financial resources.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
19 What replaces it?2/14/2022 12:55 PM
20 Seniors and people on fixed incomes benefit from every little discount they can get. As
opposed to allowing people in #2 above who don't want to pay riding for free as a courtesy.
Why be courteous to people who freeload?
2/14/2022 12:45 PM
21 doesn't particularly effect me, but im sure 2/14/2022 12:08 PM
22 This would affect the senior citizens from riding 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
23 Do not discriminate against the low-income, senior, and working class riders. This is ill-
advised.
2/14/2022 12:05 PM
24 I definitely think low-income seniors and disabled people deserve lower fares, however you can
best make that happen
2/14/2022 11:11 AM
25 Wouldn’t that mean these groups, often low income pay more than can afford?2/14/2022 10:56 AM
26 How does tap know person is sr or disabled...why can't 1 person tap for a friend or family
without waiting 6minutes???
2/14/2022 10:51 AM
27 Sure, great idea. F___ the poor, the old, the disabled. Somebody should give Ed King another
raise.
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
28 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
29 Give seniors a break. We deserve it 2/14/2022 10:27 AM
30 Not good for seniors taking the bus one time to the doctors, etc. It's already hard for some to
apply for a tap card or even get to the blue bus store
2/14/2022 10:26 AM
31 I don’t purchase this fare option.2/13/2022 9:42 AM
32 People in this group also use day passes and need them for the same reasons. They
especially don't need more inconveniences thrown at them by discontinuing bus fare options
they use. For many of them, their lives are already inconvenient and they've got more than
enough worries as is.
2/11/2022 3:31 PM
33 need free transfer 2/11/2022 7:43 AM
34 Keep Senior Day Passes!2/11/2022 12:59 AM
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35 Why make it harder for seniors and disabled people to ride the bus?2/10/2022 9:49 PM
36 Flat anytime fee for seniors at . 50cents 2/10/2022 8:59 PM
37 I can not yet take advantage of that savings.2/10/2022 8:17 PM
38 If this is helping the senior who only makes occasional trips, that would be a problem.2/10/2022 7:52 PM
39 I don’t see the reason why this should be eliminated 2/10/2022 6:42 PM
40 With the Senior TAP card, and either reloading at home via online, or through the vending
machines, or through retailers (some of us need humans to help us) the day pass is a moot
point... But oh dear, please KEEP the SENIOR FARE,
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
41 By not having cash you have pushed many seniors in the community away from riding, so
doing away with a pass is just another blow to them, and is senior discrimination.
2/10/2022 2:14 PM
42 they should get a slight cheaper price 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
43 No, do not discontinue this or any other fare option. There is no cost for BBB to continue
offering it
2/10/2022 2:02 PM
44 too many pland 2/10/2022 11:26 AM
45 seniors need all the discounts 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
46 The senior/disabled/Medicare day pass should stay the same by using the loaded tap card or
the magnetic stripe paper pass
2/10/2022 3:20 AM
47 This may can be offset if transfers are offered.2/9/2022 10:04 PM
48 People who are old and have lost abilities, like can't walk should pay less.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
49 Are you kidding? DO NOT discontinue this.2/9/2022 6:21 PM
50 I didn’t know there was a Medicare Day Pass! Keep it so I can use it! Medicare is confusing
enough as is! ♀ ♀
2/9/2022 5:47 PM
51 I am guessing that this is different from a single fare ride.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
52 So many on very limited income need to be considered!2/9/2022 4:08 PM
53 Why?? You now want to extort more money even from seniors and disabled people? Most of
the ones I know are unemployed or work part time, and not every month. They rarely need
weekly or monthly passes, and this would hurt their budgets. Many of them are low income or
poor. They especially need to be able to choose what they buy and have lots of options for bus
passes. This is hugely unfair.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
54 Cost for that day may increase if tripS take longer than expected.2/9/2022 2:04 PM
55 We should be more understanding to the people with harder life circumstances.2/9/2022 1:41 PM
56 The day pass is useful for tourists/visitors to BBB's service area 2/9/2022 12:21 PM
57 I would need to understand who this would impact and whether it would increase the cost of
transportation for people who can't afford it
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
58 Eligible groups should have the option to use these fares.2/9/2022 9:56 AM
59 Seniors on fixed income need all the help they can get.2/9/2022 8:12 AM
60 I am for whatever works best for seniors. I am a senior who is in the low income receives 20
free rides a month.
2/9/2022 7:58 AM
61 Those are the people who would likely use and benefit from the bust most.2/8/2022 8:18 PM
62 A Day Pass is ideal for someone who has to transfer often. Furthermore, an EZ Transit Day
Pass would be ideal for one who has to transfer between agencies often.
2/8/2022 8:08 PM
63 That also concerns me about the senior/disbale/medicare day pass fare of $1.50. Please do
something about that as well.
2/8/2022 2:07 PM
64 Unless you can buy one that can be uploaded to your TAP card 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
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65 If this is just part of the day pass in general getting removed I think it’s fine.2/8/2022 1:51 PM
66 This is a good option for visitors and tourists or people who ride to do errands all in a day.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
67 Are u suggesting that these riders would now ride free by presenting (perhaps) a tap type card
denoting eligibility?
2/8/2022 8:27 AM
68 Simplify process 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
69 I think even if the price is the same those who qualify for the above may want to keep the fare
type
2/8/2022 4:35 AM
70 Old people are poor 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
71 Haven’t used it myself 2/7/2022 9:58 PM
72 The reason for these groups to have an adjusted fare is because they are likely on a fixed
income. Seems inconsiderate of their needs.
2/7/2022 9:10 PM
73 Elderly people and disabled people need their discounts. Please give it to them.2/7/2022 9:07 PM
74 See above comment.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
75 Because I save money with the senior day pass, and since I'm on a mostly fixed income, this
is important to me.
2/7/2022 6:51 PM
76 why would you discontinue a discount 2/7/2022 3:41 PM
77 People on Medicare are disabled, need special fare?2/7/2022 2:57 PM
78 As a senior I appreciate the discount.2/7/2022 2:54 PM
79 You are not disclosing how the fare would be affected.2/7/2022 2:28 PM
80 Customers like having senior passes.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
81 I have never needed a BBB day pass.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
82 Why do this?2/7/2022 1:49 PM
83 As long as low income people ride for free I have no issue with having seniors, and disabled
folks being treated the same. It’s their socio economic status that is what counts, not whether
they are older or disabled.
2/7/2022 1:46 PM
84 You shouldn’t be getting rid of the senior pricing 2/7/2022 1:45 PM
85 Rarely buy a pass.2/7/2022 1:35 PM
86 Seniors should especially ride free.2/7/2022 1:21 PM
87 Depends on what will replace this pass for those seniors, etc., who use it. What will be the
price comparison?
2/7/2022 1:17 PM
88 Many elderly/disabled people have limited income. They tend to only make necessary
purchases. For them the day pass allows them to make it to there destination which otherwise
would complicated their commute.
2/7/2022 1:00 PM
89 Individuals in these categories should be allowed the full potential to receive benefits!2/7/2022 12:41 PM
90 Some seniors etc. only ride occasionally. The pass is an unnecessary hardship.2/7/2022 12:37 PM
91 For those disabled, on medicare and seniors who rarely use the bus but count on it when they
need it , it may be a necessity.
2/7/2022 12:34 PM
92 Need to care for seniors and differently abled 2/7/2022 12:24 PM
93 Vulnerable community members may be more likely to utilize special passes that cater to their
needs and situations.
2/7/2022 12:07 PM
94 see above.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
95 Now why would any agency make it more difficult for the elderly to get around. We should be
taking great care of our aging population and not taking advantage them.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
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96 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
97 Senior/disabled/Medicare should always be given priority for the bus and have a pass to ride if
they wish.
2/7/2022 11:39 AM
98 Now that these are part of TAP what is the administrative burden to keeping it?2/7/2022 11:35 AM
99 Seniors should ride free! Chicago has this program.2/7/2022 11:32 AM
100 It will not affect me, but I think that if you qualify for this, you should still be eligible for a day
pass.
2/7/2022 11:23 AM
101 would senior/people with disabilities/medicare still have access to a discounted rate?2/7/2022 11:19 AM
102 I am soon about to become a senior and i think 1$ for everyone is fair.2/7/2022 11:13 AM
103 What’s the alternative.2/7/2022 11:07 AM
104 Not sure how that works 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
105 Same as #5 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
106 I hope those groups of people still have other options though for discounted fare!2/7/2022 11:03 AM
107 I definitely do not think this is a great idea unless by removing this ticket option they get to
ride for free. Most seniors have some disability and it’s not fair to remove there low wage
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
108 I said in # 5 that the disabled day pass is vital in this plague environment! Do not let that slip
away.
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
109 Again, the bus should be free, and the last thing we should be doing is canceling discounts for
seniors and other people in need.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
110 Again what would replace it?2/7/2022 10:59 AM
111 This is extremely unhelpful, these people NEED the assistance in discounted ride fares. It
would be beyond unjust to discontinue this.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
112 Takes away from most needy 2/7/2022 10:58 AM
113 Not affected; I would infer that population is better served by a monthly pass or credential,
probably paid for by other funds in bulk.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
114 Again, why? Let them ride free for god sakes 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
115 I have a disabled TAP card. I hope the fare adjustment is not too significant.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
116 Seniors like the sense they’re being served, you should know that!2/7/2022 10:52 AM
117 These groups already contend with fixed incomes and lack of mobility in an geographic wide
area. Making movement easier benefits this group and as such the community
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
118 So disabled etc ride for free? If so, then yes otherwise don't raise fares to disabled!2/7/2022 10:49 AM
119 I’m not too familiar with the day pass so I am unsure, but there should definitely still be some
sort of lower fare options for disabled/medicare folks. Not seniors though, age shouldn’t equal
discounts. If anything the elderly people are the ones who are retired with a lot of money.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
120 Assuming other options remain fro low income folks, sounds good 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
121 Same as last response.2/7/2022 10:48 AM
122 What are the new products? Impossible to answer without knowing.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
123 Why? Bad idea 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
124 Doesn't affect me.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
125 Really ?!2/7/2022 10:42 AM
126 WTF??!?!?! DONT YOU DARE DO ANYTHING TO MAKE THE LIVES OF THE
DISABLED/ELDERLY ANY MORE DIFFICULT THAN THEY ALREADY ARE!! STOP. STOP
THIS NONSENSE SERIOUSLY. WTF IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE?!
2/7/2022 10:42 AM
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127 Most seniors who use public transit have a senior/disabled tap card 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
128 What about the old people yo 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
129 I'd really recommend continuing to discounts for people with disabilities or even introducing a
free Fair program for them.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
130 I don't think that removing the senior pass is a good idea.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
131 The reason it is not used is because you can’t buy it on the bus.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
132 This would incredibly negatively impact disabled people like me, who need the discount and
flexible options for our schedules and needs.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
133 Don’t jack up the prices on vulnerable people.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
134 See my previous comment and add scorn and confirmation about who really you’re trying to
fool
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
135 Reducing options 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
136 Don't hurt the group that needs help the most 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
137 Should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
138 If this pass gives a discount t those who can't work or can only work for a limited amount of
hours, this is be a bad idea.
2/7/2022 10:14 AM
139 Unless free Senior’s won’t ride without this 2/5/2022 7:26 AM
140 Even though I’m a senior I don’t buy the day pass, but maybe useful under some urgent
circumstances
2/4/2022 2:41 PM
141 This sounds like a change that would benefit the BBB and not customers.2/3/2022 7:41 AM
142 Seniors and the disabled need to have reduced fares, and lots of them especially use one-day
passes. This is an awful idea.
2/2/2022 4:27 PM
143 See above.2/1/2022 4:53 PM
144 You are proposing to further marginalize and disadvantage an already marginalized and
financially deprived population. Many of the individuals in this population do not need to ride
the bus every day, so buying the more expensive passes you've got left will force them to
needlessly waste money from their limited budgets.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
145 They should ride for free 1/31/2022 12:25 PM
146 If there’s not much of a demand which would make any impact on operations, I don’t see a
problem with eliminating it.
1/31/2022 12:23 PM
147 BRING BACK CASH FARES. Many seniors cannot get to places to buy or re-fil TAP cards.1/31/2022 12:14 PM
148 There are still many seniors whom do not qualify for "special" rates (such as the one that I
have thru Santa Monica allowing me up to 20 free rides per month), that still might benefit from
a SDM Day Pass. Unless I misunderstand the rest of the fare changing.
1/31/2022 8:39 AM
149 Encourage tap cards. LIFE program, daily fee, or 30 day pass.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
150 As a disabled person, the reduced fares are very important for equal access. Why would this
be considered an option, unless you're going to stop selling to make them free?
1/30/2022 2:46 AM
151 These individuals may only need to ride the bus a couple times. What would replace this?1/28/2022 2:08 PM
152 HOW DO I PURCHASE A SENIOR TICKET????!!!! I recently visited the 4th street office, with
my senior metro tap card and was told I couldn't not fill my card there. MAKE IT EASIER FOR
RIDERS TO BUY A TICKET!
1/28/2022 1:13 PM
153 I don’t I agree I don’t think I am the only one who Used day pass 1/28/2022 6:49 AM
154 Bad idea. Need to transfer multiple buses and not to lose my bus pass, plus price is affordable 1/27/2022 10:05 PM
155 Senior/disable customers barely get by on the SSI or SSDI monthly checks.1/27/2022 9:57 PM
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156 Day passes are useful.1/27/2022 8:17 PM
157 See above. Research into actual usage required 1/27/2022 5:38 PM
158 If the fare is $.50 and transfers are free, then the Day Pass doesn't make sense 1/27/2022 5:34 PM
159 No opinion on the matter 1/27/2022 5:01 PM
160 Seniors and Disabled riders should have assistance and so they don't have to show additional
i.D. which can be annoying.
1/27/2022 4:53 PM
161 Should Allow Options For Seniors and/Or Disabled To Ride During a Day.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
162 this would help tourists if they knew about it.1/27/2022 3:37 PM
163 Not so sure my grandparents mostly use the tap senior tap pass so 1/27/2022 2:55 PM
164 Ok that’s really heinous to get rid of the senior fare and the disable fare for those who aren’t
that mobile or financially available to charge them more is just gross
1/27/2022 2:42 PM
165 see question 5.1/27/2022 2:33 PM
166 I prefer tap/app over paper pass.1/27/2022 2:18 PM
167 Same as above. This doesn't impact me personally as I don't qualify for these rates.1/27/2022 2:00 PM
168 I suspect most s/d/m are single daily destinations 1/27/2022 2:00 PM
169 PLEASE DON'T DO THIS! As a senior citizen on a fixed income, it becomes so costly to pay
full fare for every multi-bus trip or transportation needs that involve many buses on a single
day.
1/27/2022 1:18 PM
170 I’m not sure of the feasibility of day passes for anyone 1/27/2022 1:08 PM
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61 / 175
8.49%59
10.07%70
39.86%277
14.82%103
11.51%80
15.25%106
Q7 Discontinue selling the 7-Day Pass to simplify fares and better align
products with customer preferences.
Answered: 695 Skipped: 20
TOTAL 695
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Same - no need to discontinue the 7 day pass for those who need it.2/17/2022 8:14 AM
2 Is hard to get it 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 Keep passes! People deserve a fare cap 2/16/2022 9:35 PM
4 I don't know what the data about users of the Regular 7-Day Pass was.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
5 Again if you don't sell many, then doing away with a product which is not in demand should be
fine.
2/15/2022 3:42 PM
6 I think this is not a good idea. I think there should be lots of different passes, so people can 2/15/2022 2:52 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1416 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
62 / 175
buy whatever they need. People don't like being made to buy more expensive things than they
want and waste a bunch of money.
7 Don’t know how many relied on this option.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
8 How popular is this?....Does BBB lose revenue or make more revenue as a result (e.g. people
buy but actually use less frequently than what they paid for)?
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
9 again, seems to make sense for tourists 2/14/2022 7:16 PM
10 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
11 Comments same as I gave to Question 5 - need to consider tourists' and occasional riders'
needs.
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
12 No issue for me.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
13 who uses that?2/14/2022 3:23 PM
14 I think people sometimes need a pass for just 7 days. There's millions of people in LA, so for
sure some of them will have reasons they need a 7 day pass.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
15 This would help visitors who are only in town for a short time but paper pass would be helpful.2/14/2022 1:26 PM
16 I think that the tourists that come visit the City of Santa Monica can definitely use the 7-day
pass without breaking the bank.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
17 See above.2/14/2022 12:55 PM
18 as above, in #5 2/14/2022 11:11 AM
19 First off, why do you keep saying to "better align products with customer preferences"? How
many customers have you had come in and say "Man, I really hate that 7-day pass, I'd really
like to pay more"? Sounds like the BBB is trying to do what it did when they stole millions from
the federal government to make the bus benches less functional, to make it seem as though
they are giving riders a "choice", when in fact the clear choice isn't given as an option. I can't
wait to use the Freedom of Information Act to access all these responses and see the number
of folks outraged by these grotesquely transparent attempts by the BBB to make it seem as
though they care about customer input while at the same time hewing to their same absurd
position.
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
20 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
21 7 Day Pass is convenient for customers who are here on vacation and encourages them to us
the BBB instead of a cab or shared ride
2/14/2022 10:28 AM
22 I do t use them 2/14/2022 10:27 AM
23 This is a good option for travelers and visitors. It is a practice found in major cities across the
world.
2/14/2022 10:17 AM
24 I don’t purchase this fare option. But this might be a useful pass for tourists, short term
visitors.
2/13/2022 9:42 AM
25 A weekly pass is a staple in bus systems everywhere. It's nonsensical to get rid of it.
Personally, I know a few people and have heard of more than a few who used 7-day passes
when their car's broken down, or stolen or otherwise damaged. Car thefts and deliberate
damage by thieves has exploded in this city the past year, so lots of people find that they need
public transportation for a short time. Insurance payouts and major car repairs can take a week
or 2, but there's no need to further gouge people in these unpleasant and already expensive
situations. Most of them won't need a monthly pass. LA tourists also find weekly passes the
best option so they can take many buses a day and visit several places. Not everyone will
want to get rental cars with the bad traffic here and all the crazy drivers in this city. People
should have more choices in how to use their local buses to best serve their needs, not less.
2/11/2022 3:31 PM
26 No Issues if 7 Day Passes are Discontinued.2/11/2022 12:59 AM
27 Fine with this one.2/10/2022 9:49 PM
28 I don’t think it’s confusing to users to have the option of a weeklong pass, and it’s probably
really helpful to tourists.
2/10/2022 9:01 PM
8.A.h
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Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
63 / 175
29 I use this pass regularly, it makes travel for me close to affordable.2/10/2022 8:17 PM
30 This is a great pass for visitors 2/10/2022 6:42 PM
31 TAP card for regular riders, I think, will work in place of the pass, being readily reloadable at
whatever intervals one is comfortable with. But will the TAP system recognize the discounted
fares?
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
32 Re implement the cash box ... The phrase "contactless" is another "buzz" word. Explain How
is there contact between the MCO and a person putting a dollar in the cash machine? Same as
when a passenger pays with their mobil ticket.
2/10/2022 2:14 PM
33 i feel like people never use that 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
34 No, do not discontinue this or any other fare option. There is no cost for BBB to continue
offering it
2/10/2022 2:02 PM
35 too many plans. keep it simple.2/10/2022 11:26 AM
36 good for tourists 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
37 The 7-day pass should stay the same by using the loaded tap card or the magnetic stripe
paper pass
2/10/2022 3:20 AM
38 People will purchase this and use public transportation if they think it will be more cost
efficient. A 30-day pass does not make sense for riders who use the bus to commute between
home and work and not every day.
2/9/2022 10:04 PM
39 Again, that pass would be best to keep for incoming travelers.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
40 That’s for those that use it to say one way or another.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
41 Never had need for the 7-day pass. Thought it was only for tourists.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
42 Keep in mind the tourist who is here for more than a day yet less than a week.2/9/2022 4:08 PM
43 We all need to be able to choose what we buy and have lots of different options for bus
passes. People here don't have identical lives and routines, and many have different needs for
riding buses. We want to be able to save money, not be forced to pay you more for more
expensive passes that we don't need. This is hugely unfair.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
44 More options for bus riders is always better.2/9/2022 1:41 PM
45 I would need to understand who this would impact and whether it would increase the cost of
transportation for people who can't afford it
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
46 I don’t know if this is a popular purchase or not. I don’t know if this should or should not be
discontinued.
2/9/2022 7:58 AM
47 A 7-Day Pass is ideal for someone who has to transfer often during the week. Furthermore, an
EZ Transit Week Pass would be ideal for one who has to transfer between agencies often.
2/8/2022 8:08 PM
48 That also concerns me about Santa Monica Big Blue Bus' Regular 7-Day Pass of $14.00.
Please do something about that upcoming change of those fares.
2/8/2022 2:07 PM
49 Unless you can buy one that can be uploaded to your TAP card 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
50 The ten ride pass may work better because riders can use it when they want instead of being
confined to a week.
2/8/2022 10:49 AM
51 Simplify process 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
52 As long as there is no benefit fare wise I think it is fine 2/8/2022 4:35 AM
53 Never use 7 day pass 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
54 Never used this fare type either 2/7/2022 9:58 PM
55 Seems silly to get ride of this unless there's a plan to bring it back when tourism picks up
again. Definitely should be an option for the Olympics in a few years.
2/7/2022 9:10 PM
56 I think if I were someone in town visiting- because BBB does service LAX and goes directly to
serve tourists, it would be a disservice to discontinue this pass. As someone who travels,
2/7/2022 9:07 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1418 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
64 / 175
convenient one time fares for transportation is everything. Keep this pass. A 3 Day pass would
also be a great add.
57 These passes can be beneficial to tourists that aren’t familiar with our currency system.2/7/2022 8:17 PM
58 Again.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
59 I don't purchase a 7-day pass unless it's a senior pass.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
60 I tried to buy a 7 days pass, and they sold me the 14 days, saying they did NOT HAVE the 7,
why is that?
2/7/2022 2:57 PM
61 Needed for tourists?2/7/2022 2:30 PM
62 Again. not disclosing what the new product would be.2/7/2022 2:28 PM
63 Some people may like this choice of purchasing a 7 day pass.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
64 Metro passes are sufficient for my needs.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
65 See #5.2/7/2022 1:49 PM
66 Not sure the point of a 7 day pass. Once again was it for visitors?2/7/2022 1:46 PM
67 In general, it would seem that anytime you better align products with customer preferences,
that is to the good. The question I do not know how to answer is… What is the trade-off?
2/7/2022 1:17 PM
68 Many riders’ income is limited and not always continuous. For many college students getting a
monthly pass isn’t feasible. A lot of the riders tend to live paycheck to paycheck, which makes
weekly passes more attainable.
2/7/2022 1:00 PM
69 Thé USA is a cash economy.2/7/2022 12:37 PM
70 Might be good for tourists and visiting family members to keep the option 2/7/2022 12:34 PM
71 Some people prefer 7 day pass 2/7/2022 12:13 PM
72 If you do not sell many now, than no problem, if you do, then you are making things harder for
some.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
73 No comment 2/7/2022 12:03 PM
74 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
75 For someone like me who uses the bus to attend work, I only need it 5 days a week so I was
not using the other 2days when I would get this pass.
2/7/2022 11:39 AM
76 Good for tourists and visitors.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
77 If we are digital what difference does it make? We should encourage riders!2/7/2022 11:32 AM
78 Some people visiting the area may only need a 7day pass.2/7/2022 11:24 AM
79 I would like to see the 7 day pass rate as the 30 day pass rate 2/7/2022 11:23 AM
80 Not sure, taking, e.g. bus to work would be about five-plus days. I use to take the No. 10 to
downtown LA to work for years and years. Sometimes, Maybe, five days for a lesser amount.
2/7/2022 11:10 AM
81 What’s the alternative.2/7/2022 11:07 AM
82 This seems like something that should still be an option for those to at frequently ride 2/7/2022 11:03 AM
83 Try this- structure a promo for a 10 day pass for 15$ for 15 weeks… a quarter of a year! See if
it helps restore the Ted King image?!😑
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
84 Make it free.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
85 7 day pass would be better if it worked for 7 actual days versus a once you activate it for
seven days. No matter who you are or your schedule you probably aren’t using the bus 7 days
in a row and definitely not just one bus line. Ex ic you use metro one day...
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
86 Discontinuing any of these passes is incredibly unhelpful.2/7/2022 10:58 AM
87 Make it cheaper 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1419 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
65 / 175
88 A 7 day pass seems useful, I’d personally just load a TAP card with like $14 on it but this
seems unnecessary to get rid of. Neutral on if you got rid of it though.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
89 I never understood why this existed 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
90 This is so handy for tourists!2/7/2022 10:48 AM
91 Is there a monthly?2/7/2022 10:43 AM
92 No, bad idea 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
93 Again, see above about automatic updates to passes.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
94 I would really be against the discontinuing of a 7-Day pass.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
95 It's an option much like a gift card you probably won't get used all the way so it's a benefit
even at the discount for you guys whatever
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
96 Are tourists using this type of pass? If so, please keep. There's a benefit to keeping them of
the roads esp with the World Cup and Olympics.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
97 If someone uses Big Blue Bus often, and the 7-Day pass saves a bit of money on a daily
commute, it is significantly better than having to pay more individually.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
98 very bad for low income workers who use the bus to get to work 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
99 I’m sure a lot of people really use this. The reason you can’t use it is because you can’t buy it
on the bus.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
100 We shouldn’t punish people with higher fares for riding the bus a lot in one week.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
101 What point does that make other than line your pockets 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
102 Reducing options 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
103 Bad for tourism, I’d say o 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
104 Probably discourages tourists 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
105 Same answer about the tourists 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
106 Not as simple as making the fare free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
107 No one uses anyway 2/5/2022 7:26 AM
108 Again I guess this is a temporary use of transit, but maybe not necessary 2/4/2022 2:41 PM
109 I've found this worthwhile in the past, but it's probably no longer needed with all the other
proposed changes.
2/2/2022 9:23 PM
110 Plenty of people I know have used 7 day passes while their car was being repaired or when
they had short-term jobs around the Santa Monica area where it was easier to get via BBB
buses but they otherwise didn't need to commute there.
2/2/2022 4:27 PM
111 Day passes are a better product 2/2/2022 10:13 AM
112 Again: why?2/1/2022 4:53 PM
113 These are used by visitors to the city and people who need to use public transport only
temporarily due to issues with their vehicle. LA has a sizable tourist industry that brings
significant income to this entire area; BBB is not doing this region any favors by making
changes that will result in our public transport system being less usable to the tourists and
visitors.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
114 Negative impact for tourists who are here for that amount of time. Hurts someone whose car is
in the shop for a few days etc...
1/31/2022 9:52 PM
115 How would this simplify fares and better align products? It's good for visitors and tourists.1/31/2022 12:25 PM
116 It would depend on the amount of usage and daily riders who rely on that pass.1/31/2022 12:23 PM
117 JUST BRING BACK CASH FARES.1/31/2022 12:14 PM
118 This pass is most useful for people whom are visiting for extended times, as well as tourists.1/31/2022 8:39 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1420 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
66 / 175
So....it makes it much easier and cost effective to use a 7 day pass.
119 OK to encourage 30 day pass.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
120 You are not allowing tourists or occasional users to use your service. I am totally against
having people have to buy a month pass or find out how to get a tap card and fill it. We should
be encouraging bus usage, not discouraging it.
1/28/2022 10:57 AM
121 I believe these to be most interesting for tourists. If that is an important part of the ridership it
should stay
1/27/2022 5:38 PM
122 Not sure, I would say the same as a day pass, the 7 day pass seems to be a norm. Perhaps
keep it TAP only and see if it remains popular or time to go.
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
123 I think it would be a good idea, especially if you have tourists who are visiting for 5 days. You
may want to sell a 5-Day pass that would be good for visitors as well as locals.
1/27/2022 4:53 PM
124 Should Allow Options To Ride During a Week.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
125 Check my first response 1/27/2022 2:55 PM
126 Absent a two hour transfer between buses, this would make fares less affordable to people
who come to town for a short period. Should the decision to implement a two hour transfer be
implemented, it would then make it much easier to justify the removal of this fare product.
1/27/2022 2:39 PM
127 I prefer tap/app over paper pass.1/27/2022 2:18 PM
128 Will there be a similar option?1/27/2022 2:02 PM
129 Minimum wage earner may only afford a eeekly pass.1/27/2022 2:00 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1421 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
67 / 175
8.99%62
7.68%53
36.96%255
16.67%115
12.90%89
16.81%116
Q8 Discontinue selling the Annual Pass to simplify fares and better align
products with customer preferences.
Answered: 690 Skipped: 25
TOTAL 690
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 The annual pass is likely not popular and so it can be eliminated if needed.2/17/2022 8:14 AM
2 Very expensive for me 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 Same as above! I had an annual pass and used it ALL the time because my employer paid for
it. It really enabled a lot of my transit usage
2/16/2022 9:35 PM
4 With so much confusion about school and work from home, it would be unfair to pay for it and
not able to benefit from it.
2/16/2022 3:23 PM
5 I don't know what the data about users of the Annual Pass was.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1422 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
68 / 175
6 I think people who want an annual pass and have the means to pay for it should be able to do
so.
2/15/2022 5:46 PM
7 I think this is not a good idea. I think there should be lots of different passes, so people can
buy whatever they need.
2/15/2022 2:52 PM
8 Probably few would be inconvenienced by this, but. . .2/15/2022 5:07 AM
9 I think this is an important incentive to get people to commit to using BBB daily. If BBB is
losing money on this, I'd recommend keeping.
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
10 if you're not selling many annual passes, makes sense to eliminate i suppose.2/14/2022 7:16 PM
11 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
12 No issue for me.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
13 Like Costco buying in bulk.2/14/2022 3:50 PM
14 I never used annual pass 2/14/2022 2:48 PM
15 I'm sure some bus riders need a yearly pass and will be upset to not be able to buy one. I
heard some workplaces buy yearly bus passes for employees too, so what are they going to
do if they can't buy it? People are already having more work benefits taken away with every
year that goes by.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
16 I think that $500 for an Annual BBB pass is probably too expensive for most people in the City
of Santa Monica. I think that the BBB should discontinue this particular fare product.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
17 If a customer buys the pass, that’s his/her preference.2/14/2022 1:00 PM
18 This could go either way.2/14/2022 12:55 PM
19 same as above - too many products , too confusing 2/14/2022 11:11 AM
20 Ha ha ha ha ha. Vide supra!2/14/2022 10:31 AM
21 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
22 Annual Pass is better for customers who ride the bus regularly 2/14/2022 10:28 AM
23 I don’t purchase this fare option.2/13/2022 9:42 AM
24 This is just a trove of bad ideas. I know some of your bus riders use an annual pass. Just
because it's not the most purchased pass doesn't mean you must stop selling it. An annual
pass costs less than 12 monthly passes so people who commute yearround use it. It's also
easier to buy one pass per year than having to buy a new pass every month. Shrinking
people's options and making your system more restrictive is not going to have a positive
impact on your customers.
2/11/2022 3:31 PM
25 Just let people who want it buy it! You don't have to advertise it or anything -- some people use
the bus daily and should be able to buy a discounted annual pass.
2/10/2022 9:49 PM
26 Again, not sure why this is even up for debate? There doesn’t seem to be a downside to
offering an annual pass other than to force riders to renew their pass monthly.
2/10/2022 9:01 PM
27 I have not utilized this pass.2/10/2022 8:17 PM
28 I would never purchase a yearly pass. What if I lost it?2/10/2022 7:52 PM
29 I believe working professionals and students who use BBB for their daily transports benefit
from this annual pass, they buy it once and are good for the year
2/10/2022 6:42 PM
30 TAP card really replaces Passes in general, as long as the TAP system recognizes the
discounts.
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
31 didnt even know that existed 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
32 No, do not continue this or any other fare option. Besides it creates significant inconvenience
for Annual Pass holders no matter how few are sold. Employers pay for Annual Passes rather
than Monthly Passes. Just lower the cost accordingly. There is no cost for BBB to continue
offering it
2/10/2022 2:02 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1423 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
69 / 175
33 some passengers must budget once a year for funding.2/10/2022 11:26 AM
34 The annual pass should stay the same by using the loaded tap card or the magnetic stripe
paper pass
2/10/2022 3:20 AM
35 I think this is a waste because most people will not want to pay for 1 year of transportation in
advance. The pandemic showed us routines change rapidly.
2/9/2022 10:04 PM
36 If people take the bus to/from work, the 365 day pass should be useful.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
37 Those that need it should get it. I don’t know what the cost is for that; compared to if it was
added up daily.
2/9/2022 5:47 PM
38 Never used the Annual pass.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
39 I'm sure the annual pass is more convenient-decrease worry or concern re date of renewal 2/9/2022 4:08 PM
40 Some people liked these and thought they were cheaper than buying monthly passes if they
needed to ride the bus a lot year-round. Also for them it's more convenient to only buy a pass
once a year than having to look for your hard to find stores and machines to buy passes
monthly or reload these new cards even more often.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
41 More options for bus riders is always better.2/9/2022 1:41 PM
42 If we can't completely eliminate fares,I believe some people should have access to an annual
pass, especially those who use the bus on a regular basis.
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
43 An EZ Transit Annual Pass is ideal for everyday riders.2/8/2022 8:08 PM
44 Please discontinue Santa Monica Big Blue Bus' annual pass of $500. Why? Because that is
very-very expensive to many of those riders.
2/8/2022 2:07 PM
45 Unless you can buy one that can be uploaded to your TAP card 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
46 Customers may prefer the monthly pass so that they can choose it or reject it based on their
work or academic schedule for the month rather than the year commitment.
2/8/2022 10:49 AM
47 I didn't know there was an Annual Pass ...2/8/2022 10:16 AM
48 Its very easy to lose something u have to hold on to for a year, unless its a tap card.2/8/2022 8:27 AM
49 Same 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
50 This might be an easier thing for people who do use the service to pay an annual fee and
forget about it but not sure how often it is used
2/8/2022 4:35 AM
51 Was very expensive 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
52 For the above questions, I think BBB has a better answer than the public. Why do not know if
selling these passes creates an issue and if so HOW.
2/7/2022 10:47 PM
53 Haven’t used this personally 2/7/2022 9:58 PM
54 What marketing strategy did this have? I never even knew this was an option. I might have
picked this up had I known. This is something that could have used a boost to inform locals
and encourage public transport over private vehicle/parking limitations. Maybe when things
pick up this should be relaunched.
2/7/2022 9:10 PM
55 N/A 2/7/2022 9:07 PM
56 Who buys an annual pass? People with the gift of prophecy?2/7/2022 7:42 PM
57 if it saves people money then keep it 2/7/2022 3:41 PM
58 is helpful 2/7/2022 2:57 PM
59 What options are offered in place of that pass? Will it cost riders more money?2/7/2022 2:28 PM
60 This could be a real money saver for people using BBB to get to and from their workplace each
day.
2/7/2022 2:08 PM
61 Hmm....2/7/2022 1:54 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1424 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
70 / 175
62 Not sure the point of an annual pass. It seems to favor those who can pay more upfront. So
the wealthy, who don’t need anymore discounts.
2/7/2022 1:46 PM
63 See my answer to number seven, above.2/7/2022 1:17 PM
64 Annual passes seem to be very necessary for regular commuters (e.g. for work)!2/7/2022 12:41 PM
65 Once a year might work for a casual rider population.2/7/2022 12:37 PM
66 Some people prefer annual pass 2/7/2022 12:13 PM
67 see #7 above.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
68 Those who utilize BBB services year around deserve a reasonable discounted rate.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
69 Annual Pass is way better than keep on relying to month to month basis of loading the Tap
Card.
2/7/2022 11:43 AM
70 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
71 Good for commuters.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
72 More options not less!2/7/2022 11:32 AM
73 I think that the upfront costs is probably too expensive for some people to want to choose, if
they even use the bbb regularly but that's my assumption.
2/7/2022 11:23 AM
74 don’t know, but i am leaning more towards negative impact? because this seems like it would
allow the person to save money
2/7/2022 11:19 AM
75 What’s the alternative.2/7/2022 11:07 AM
76 This seems like something that should still be an option for those to at frequently ride 2/7/2022 11:03 AM
77 There should be a monthly pass instead of a annual 2/7/2022 11:03 AM
78 Do a shorter window-3-6 months. It may be worth the bookkeeeping.2/7/2022 11:01 AM
79 Make. It. Free.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
80 I don’t know anyone that will commit to a year of riding the bus. Most people are trying to
afford a car, because transit doesn’t exist if a bus that used to run every 10 min Now is totally
unreliable. It went from 4 min to 28min to 48min. I hadn’t ever seen times in the schedule
crossed out. Forces t You to take an Uber/lyft and they have become extremely expensive.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
81 I would buy a a retail annual pass if I didn't own a car. But I bought a car when Big Blue failed
me too many times. Nothing you've done since, nor anything Metro presents today, even begin
to convince me to reconsider. I'm guessing there aren't a lot of people that choose annual
passes; monthly will do
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
82 This one is way overpriced. People will actually buy this if you made it like 200-250 dollars 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
83 What don’t you guys get about people not having the time or tech savvy to access refilling
cards?! C’mon! It’s excruciating seeing people struggle to get transpiration because they don’t
have a smart phone or a credit card and/or skill to load a tap card.
2/7/2022 10:52 AM
84 This doesn’t even need an explanation. Don’t get rid of this. There’s definitely people who
heavily rely on this.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
85 Tough on some seniors 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
86 Commuters may depend on this option since it is more affordable 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
87 I didn’t know there was one!2/7/2022 10:48 AM
88 I like the idea of an annual pass but the price is ridiculously high. $50-80 for an annual pass
would be more reasonable
2/7/2022 10:44 AM
89 Unnecessary 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
90 This would make no sense discontinuing an annual pass both to the writer and big blue bus.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
91 I never knew about an annual pass until this question it's nice to know 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1425 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
71 / 175
92 Have a monthly pass like London does...2/7/2022 10:39 AM
93 This would be awesome if we can make payments via Sezzle or Afterpay 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
94 If an annual pass is helpful to someone who uses the Big Blue Bus substantially often,
removing that option would make life more difficult.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
95 We shouldn’t punish people with higher fares for riding the bus a lot in a year.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
96 Colorado has an eco pass that’s affordable and convenient. Obviously you don’t care. Blame
customer preferences and expect people to take you seriously
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
97 Tons of students rely on the purchase of AP 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
98 I prefer annual if possible.2/7/2022 10:36 AM
99 This might adversely affects seniors 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
100 Not as simple as making the fare free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
101 Some people have the means to purchase this pass or may be reimbursed by their employer
so this may not work for everyone
2/7/2022 10:14 AM
102 I think it’s easier to have an annual pass that is purchased once a year.2/5/2022 9:35 AM
103 Commuters need this 2/5/2022 7:26 AM
104 Unable to relate under my circumstances 2/4/2022 2:41 PM
105 Predicting an entire year's bus pass needs isn't always possible, plus it's a big up-front cost.2/2/2022 9:23 PM
106 Few can afford a year pass 2/2/2022 10:13 AM
107 Depends on how the math turns out. If the new monthly pass amount is more than the annual
pass breaks down to per month, you are raising the prices and penalizing those that use the
bus consistently throughout the year. If it's the same amount or less than it's neutral and just a
matter of what is easier for BBB internally, and shouldn't make a difference to the customer.
1/31/2022 9:52 PM
108 Not sure if there’s anyone who purchases an annual pass, or at least enough to make it
worthwhile to maintain it.
1/31/2022 12:23 PM
109 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
110 annual passes is a lot of responsibility to make sure you have a tap card to carry. I think Big
blue should hand out or sell cheaply lanyards for riders who carry tap cards around their neck
for faster boarding but more importantly so they dont loose them
1/31/2022 11:22 AM
111 There are people who depend on BBB to get to their livelihood and jobs so I think offering an
annual pass allows for greater job security.
1/31/2022 8:42 AM
112 Not sure if the proposed newer fare methods would cause increased rates.1/31/2022 8:39 AM
113 Annual pass, buy 11 months and get one month free. $30 x 11 for year. Senior, Youth $15 x 11
for year.
1/30/2022 9:24 PM
114 All passes must be purchased online, which means many many poor or senior riders are NOT
able to purchase a bus ticket. Libraries are closed, CANNOT buy a ticket there. The only place
to buy a ticket is the metro station, which is not convenient! MAKE IT EASIER FOR RIDERS
TO BUY A TICKET!
1/28/2022 1:13 PM
115 Could be easier for parent to purchase in one go for child 1/28/2022 10:25 AM
116 I didn't know there was an annual pass. Monthly which may not be useful if cannot also use it
for Metro.
1/27/2022 8:17 PM
117 I think the annual year pass needs to be reduced due to the coronavirus 500 dollars is to
expensive
1/27/2022 7:49 PM
118 The best public transport experience is one you don’t have to think or plan about. If you have
annual or even monthly (instead of weekly perhaps) then you can have the best experience
1/27/2022 5:38 PM
119 Annual passes on transit are pretty rare for possibly good reasons, so perhaps there is a good
reason to simply eliminate it
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1426 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
72 / 175
120 I think it would be better for locals to have if they use the bus for everyday work travel. It's so
much easier not having to keep refilling.
1/27/2022 4:53 PM
121 Should Allow Options To Ride During a Year.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
122 Given its benefits, I would recommend retaining the annual pass.1/27/2022 2:39 PM
123 I prefer tap/app over paper pass.1/27/2022 2:18 PM
124 This gives the appearance that nobody bought the Annual Pass, and you just need to put this
out there to officially eliminate it. If that is the case we understand.
1/27/2022 2:00 PM
125 I doubt this pass has generated much income for big blue bus or bas helped passengers
significantly.
1/27/2022 1:08 PM
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Packet Pg. 1427 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
73 / 175
29.00%201
35.93%249
21.36%148
2.16%15
3.46%24
8.08%56
Q9 Discontinue selling the Regular 13 Rides Pass priced at $14.00 ($1.07
per ride), and introduce a new Regular 10 Rides Pass priced at $9.00
($0.90 per ride).
Answered: 693 Skipped: 22
TOTAL 693
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Seems positive and saves the people money 2/17/2022 2:01 PM
2 Very good idea 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 Overall it’s good per ride, but it would require people to reload more frequently.2/16/2022 9:35 PM
4 Good for people on budgets.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
5 Easier to understand and to value.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1428 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
74 / 175
6 I can't believe your operating costs are going down. Why would you lower your revenues? Who
is going to subsidize this?
2/15/2022 3:42 PM
7 Similar enough but simpler. Sounds reasonable.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
8 Would this generate any more revenue/ticket sales? If not, then why continue to cut bus
fares?....
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
9 The 10% savings isn't all that significant for people who can afford to pre-invest in a 10-ride
product. It might make a difference for customers who don't have the money up-front anyway.
The $1 fare itself is a savings and good transportation value, especially considering the free
transfer. I don't think it's useful to offer a 10-ride discount of just 10%.
2/14/2022 9:02 PM
10 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
11 revenue 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
12 No issue for me.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
13 Cheaper by the dozen theory.2/14/2022 3:50 PM
14 Less paid out of pocket, cheaper per ride.2/14/2022 2:12 PM
15 I think that the BBB should discontinue selling the 13 ride fare product and sell the 10 ride fare
product because the BBB is effectively giving the BBB customer a 17 cents discount on the
overall purchase of a 10 ride pass
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
16 This can not apply to myself. I can not speak for others.2/14/2022 12:55 PM
17 too much math :)2/14/2022 11:11 AM
18 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
19 if have 10 day pass 2/11/2022 7:43 AM
20 I may use this pass in the future.2/10/2022 8:17 PM
21 Makes sense - a bundle purchase should give a lower price / ride 2/10/2022 6:42 PM
22 Gives the possibility for a discount for those intermittent riders who don't have a TAP card 2/10/2022 4:09 PM
23 didnt know about that 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
24 tourist appeal 2/10/2022 11:26 AM
25 reduction will get more riders 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
26 Both the 13 rides and 10 rides passes should be kept the same and sell those two passes
using the magnetic stripe paper passes or load it on tap card
2/10/2022 3:20 AM
27 10 is an easier number to use and it could be one week of commuting to work.2/9/2022 10:04 PM
28 More or less, keeping or changing can do.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
29 Now I’m getting confused? We’re talking about a senior who wants to keep $.50 fares.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
30 12 rides for $10 makes more sense.2/9/2022 5:14 PM
31 Reducing the price of public transportation is always good, even though I don't use this pass.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
32 Fare decreases would be appreciated, I'm sure! For many, every dollar makes a difference!2/9/2022 4:08 PM
33 A lower price would be better. Also 20 or 25 ride passes. It is so much trouble now for most
people to have to buy these passes so often.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
34 If we cannot eliminate fares, I believe we should keep the 13 ride pass for people who take the
bus occasionally
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
35 Very important to continue selling these ticket bundles especially as our school/work
schedules evolve.
2/8/2022 8:18 PM
36 None whatsoever.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
37 Cheaper fares = more ridership 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1429 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
75 / 175
38 Same 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
39 I like the 10 because it is an even number 2/8/2022 4:35 AM
40 I like the new price 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
41 Selling 10 Ride passes seems more logical than 13.2/7/2022 10:47 PM
42 This is what I would purchase vs. individual rides. Love it 2/7/2022 9:58 PM
43 Can this be purchased on the bus? Is there an expiration?2/7/2022 9:10 PM
44 Get people adding.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
45 Why would you do this?2/7/2022 5:09 PM
46 pandemic times, poverty.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
47 What timeline does the rider have to use the rides on that pass? Will it include free transfer?2/7/2022 2:28 PM
48 People like lower prices.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
49 Sounds good for any triskaidekaphobes....2/7/2022 1:54 PM
50 Meh.2/7/2022 1:49 PM
51 You don’t need either of these passes. Really who is it for?2/7/2022 1:46 PM
52 Affordable for most people.2/7/2022 1:00 PM
53 Simpler 2/7/2022 12:38 PM
54 Why?2/7/2022 12:37 PM
55 More fairly priced and simpler.2/7/2022 12:34 PM
56 simpler to remember rides, esp if a user takes two rides a day.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
57 Excellent decrease 2/7/2022 12:03 PM
58 Not enough of a discount 2/7/2022 11:56 AM
59 Less is More.2/7/2022 11:43 AM
60 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
61 13 rides was always an odd choice (ha!) because it doesn't include round-trips 2/7/2022 11:37 AM
62 Good for residents, keep these.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
63 I think that it should be even more low in price. So that it's a more economic choice.2/7/2022 11:23 AM
64 I like less complicated, and the proposal is less complicated.2/7/2022 11:13 AM
65 Now we’re getting it.2/7/2022 11:01 AM
66 Make it free!2/7/2022 10:59 AM
67 Helps people already having a tough time 2/7/2022 10:58 AM
68 Why 13? Never understood that 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
69 Easier to calculate fares.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
70 Good idea.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
71 YES i have been biyojg individually because of that crazy extra dollar!2/7/2022 10:48 AM
72 Should be more discounted, since one ride is already $1. There is less of an incentive to
purchase the pass if it is just like buying single tickets
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
73 I hadn’t even heard of any regular ride pass until now and I ride the bus every day.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
74 I’d never considered buying passes, but this would be very appealing.2/7/2022 10:41 AM
75 I don't see people using this pass so push it but whatever I don't see it being a long-term yield 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1430 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
76 / 175
people should just get the tap card at that point especially if you're traveling on the bus already
have a TAP card so just another option on the menu
76 Again, seems bad for tourism but maybe it’s not used 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
77 Cheaper and less commitment 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
78 Not as simple as making the fare free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
79 Better rate, more likely used as people use during work week 2/7/2022 10:28 AM
80 More cost effective for riders 2/6/2022 9:54 PM
81 Unable to relate 2/4/2022 2:41 PM
82 Doesn't apply to me 2/2/2022 2:59 PM
83 13 rides is an awkward number, I think 10 makes more sense. Also it's cheaper.2/1/2022 4:53 PM
84 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
85 Makes so much more sense 1/31/2022 10:54 AM
86 Good, prefer $15 for 15 days. $30 for a month.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
87 Again, easier if it's rounded off.1/28/2022 1:52 PM
88 It would make sense that multiple rides would cost less than a single ride priced at $1.1/27/2022 11:35 PM
89 Yes, but keep the day pass instead. These type of longer term passes don’t make sense
especially on a bus only system.
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
90 Sure, whatever. You know if people take you up on it or not. I personally would never do it.1/27/2022 4:54 PM
91 Nice pricing for ease.1/27/2022 4:53 PM
92 Maybe Reduce To 12 Rides for $12?1/27/2022 4:11 PM
93 this would encourage people NOT to get a Tap card if they had financial problems. I assume
most people with Tap cards have more than 10 rides. See also #10 comment.
1/27/2022 3:37 PM
94 This option works well and is competitive with the $1.00 single fare option.1/27/2022 2:39 PM
95 I prefer tap/app over paper pass.1/27/2022 2:18 PM
96 But it's been called the Baker's Dozen for so, so long. What is the focus group testing on this
like? It just seems like another thing to communicate at a time when the agency seems
strapped for communicating with the public.
1/27/2022 2:00 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1431 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
77 / 175
23.39%160
28.36%194
30.12%206
4.39%30
4.82%33
8.92%61
Q10 Discontinue selling the Senior/Disabled/Medicare 13 Rides Pass
priced at $6.00 ($0.46 per ride), and introduce a new
Senior/Disabled/Medicare 10 Rides Pass priced at $4.50 ($0.45 per ride).
Answered: 684 Skipped: 31
TOTAL 684
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Seems good for the our senior and disabled citizens.2/17/2022 2:01 PM
2 Good idea 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 Overall good per ride, but would require people to make the purchase more frequently 2/16/2022 9:35 PM
4 I used the 13 rides all the time, 10 is just as good. Thanks 2/16/2022 3:23 PM
5 Easier to understand and to value.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1432 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
78 / 175
6 You should be raising fares.2/15/2022 3:42 PM
7 Same as 9.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
8 how does that affect my .40 per ride that i currently pay as "senior"2/14/2022 7:16 PM
9 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
10 happy a lot 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
11 Much to do about nothing.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
12 I would buy this. These will have an effect of encouraging more bus riding and raising more
funds.
2/14/2022 4:00 PM
13 To much bother and work for such a little change.2/14/2022 3:50 PM
14 only if we get the auto freebie transfer 2/14/2022 3:23 PM
15 On this particular fare product for seniors and people with disabilities the discount is merely 1
cent compared to the regular 10 ride fare product. I definitely think that the BBB should keep
the 13 ride fare product because there’s much more bang for the buck with the 13 ride fare
product for seniors and people with disabilities
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
16 Do I get a refund for my current ride pass? Will it be extended?2/14/2022 12:55 PM
17 It should be free 2/14/2022 12:04 PM
18 Doesn’t worth the effort 2/14/2022 10:56 AM
19 Saving a penny? The BBB's largesse knows no boundaries.2/14/2022 10:31 AM
20 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
21 Yay, let’s hear it for the seniors. Please don’t use the term disabled 2/14/2022 10:27 AM
22 This should be fully subsidized / free 2/11/2022 11:13 AM
23 if have 10 day pass 2/11/2022 7:43 AM
24 Do it 2/10/2022 8:59 PM
25 Agree, same as above 2/10/2022 6:42 PM
26 If you don't have a Senior TAP, then the 10 ride pass still allows for the discount for
intermittent riders
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
27 no idea 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
28 we already pay 45 cents with a tap card 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
29 Both the 13 rides and 10 rides passes should be kept the same and sell those two passes
using the magnetic stripe paper passes or load it on tap card
2/10/2022 3:20 AM
30 It’s only 1 cent cheaper why not just offer both or let seniors and disable ride for 25 cents a
ride
2/9/2022 11:40 PM
31 Same as above comment 2/9/2022 10:04 PM
32 Especially for older people who should pay less, this can be kept or changed, more or less.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
33 Are you kidding? No way!2/9/2022 6:21 PM
34 Keep it ! Seniors need it! If they didn’t need it they’d be driving; getting confused; or upset;
without help , …..or lost!
2/9/2022 5:47 PM
35 I usually use this 13-day pass, so reducing the fare by one penny makes little difference.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
36 See above comment. Would a person be able to purchase more than one pass at a time?2/9/2022 4:08 PM
37 I think they need the prices lowered too.2/9/2022 3:31 PM
38 People may not need as many as 13 rides.2/9/2022 1:41 PM
39 If we cannot eliminate fares, I believe we should keep the 13 ride pass for people who take the 2/9/2022 10:01 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1433 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
79 / 175
bus occasionally
40 I believe when I was paying and loading my tap card I was paying $.40 a ride? It appears cost
when up for seniors?
2/9/2022 7:58 AM
41 Also, none whatsoever.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
42 Cheaper fares = more ridership 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
43 Same 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
44 Again, I think the even number is good 2/8/2022 4:35 AM
45 Too expensive 2/8/2022 12:35 AM
46 What is being done to inform these groups of this option? Is the outreach multilingual?2/7/2022 9:10 PM
47 Pennies. Who needs 'em.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
48 It would save me a little money.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
49 Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s finances.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
50 Will that include free bbb transfer? And what timeline does rider have to use rides on that
pass?
2/7/2022 2:28 PM
51 Lowers the cost.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
52 Maybe if I moved my residence to Santa Monica?2/7/2022 1:54 PM
53 Also meh.2/7/2022 1:49 PM
54 Nope. Don’t need either pass.2/7/2022 1:46 PM
55 A lot more seniors/disabled people will have access to public transportation. It’s affordable for
most.
2/7/2022 1:00 PM
56 Individuals in these categories should be allowed the full potential to receive benefits!2/7/2022 12:41 PM
57 Why?2/7/2022 12:37 PM
58 Same reasons as above 2/7/2022 12:34 PM
59 There is no price difference ($0.01) and more rides means a pass doesn’t need to be
purchased as often.
2/7/2022 12:07 PM
60 See 9 above 2/7/2022 12:03 PM
61 This option is not equivalent to proposal 9. It increase the cost for elderly passengers.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
62 This means people have to buy passes more frequently which ends up being more expensive.2/7/2022 11:52 AM
63 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
64 Seniors should ride free! Encourage them to ride not to drive.2/7/2022 11:32 AM
65 Can riders buy more than one pass at a time? Are the passes dated?2/7/2022 11:24 AM
66 Bring back cash/coin fare boxes 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
67 Even though it is less days it is cheaper 2/7/2022 11:03 AM
68 But again- do those rides have to be consecutive? Or how are they measured?2/7/2022 11:01 AM
69 Make it free.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
70 Takes away from most needy people 2/7/2022 10:58 AM
71 Couldn't you make it 11 rides for $5.00 and keep the math even?2/7/2022 10:58 AM
72 Let them ride free 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
73 Easier to calculate.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
74 Good.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1434 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
80 / 175
75 If allowed transfers, this generally wouldn’t be needed.2/7/2022 10:48 AM
76 4 or 5 cent saving from regular senior fare? 25 cent saving would make sense 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
77 I have a senior tap but find it impossible to load fares on it for big blue bus! No help at metro
tap stations!
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
78 I would like to see you guys and now to discontinuing senior service I'd like to see how that
goes bad idea
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
79 It was already 40 cents with a tap card so this actually is a raises fare 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
80 Illogical 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
81 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
82 Assisting people in a limited income is always a good idea.2/5/2022 9:35 AM
83 I can see how this is necessary 2/4/2022 2:41 PM
84 I don't think forcing customers to buy more rides really makes a difference. Again, this sounds
like its for the convenience of the BBB and not customers.
2/3/2022 7:41 AM
85 I never knew about this. But it sure would save me a lot of $$. I'm 74 and handicapped.2/2/2022 2:59 PM
86 See above.2/1/2022 4:53 PM
87 These people should ride for free as well as veterans 1/31/2022 12:25 PM
88 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
89 Yes, prefer $4 for 10 senior/youth rides.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
90 MAKE IT EASIER FOR A SENIOR TO BUY A TICKET, OR FILL TAP CARDS! Why am I
paying full price online for a senior ticket? Because Big Blue Bus is a disorganized mess!
Where are the retailers who fill tap cards? Where's the information riders need? I went to
Ralphs and they said they can't help me and that I need to go to a metro station. Very
confusing!
1/28/2022 1:13 PM
91 No Opinion on this matter.1/27/2022 5:01 PM
92 Sure.1/27/2022 4:54 PM
93 It should Remain the same 13 Rides For $6.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
94 this would encourage people NOT to get a Tap card if they had financial prblems. I assume
most people with Tap cards have more than 10 rides. Can people sign up for Tap cards at the
10 rides for $4.50 rate? If so, they will all do it.
1/27/2022 3:37 PM
95 This option works well and is competitive with the senior/disabled single fare option.1/27/2022 2:39 PM
96 I prefer tap/app over paper pass.1/27/2022 2:18 PM
97 It doesn’t seem like this makes it easier, people will simple have to buy it more often which
can be more of a hassle.
1/27/2022 2:02 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1435 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
81 / 175
58.36%405
28.39%197
9.22%64
0.86%6
1.30%9
1.87%13
Q11 Reduce the price of the Regular 30-Day Pass from $50.00 to $30.00.
Answered: 694 Skipped: 21
TOTAL 694
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Much more reasonable; a dollar a day - very reasonable and good for everyone ~!~2/17/2022 2:01 PM
2 You have to do that given reduced fares.2/17/2022 8:14 AM
3 It is a good idea 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
4 Reduce the cost! This is a good move!2/16/2022 9:35 PM
5 I think Big Blue Bus should put fee at $25, you have to get some revenue .2/16/2022 3:23 PM
6 Supports the value of riding the bus. Economizing is a clean ride.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
7 yes!!!!2/16/2022 12:40 PM
8 This makes good sense.2/15/2022 5:46 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1436 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
82 / 175
9 If you can't get someone to pay the extremely low price of 50/month, what difference will
lowering it to 30/month do? At this rate it seems as though you might start paying people to
ride the bus. What is the actual cost per ride? Unfortunately I'm only half joking in that it might
be less expensive to offer uber or taxi vouchers.
2/15/2022 3:42 PM
10 Lowering the prices is a good idea.2/15/2022 2:52 PM
11 Very positive for consumers, but loss of fare probably negative to BBB.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
12 Yes I save money 2/15/2022 2:13 AM
13 Would this generate any more revenue/ticket sales? If not, then why bother?....2/14/2022 10:55 PM
14 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
15 I've almost never bought 30-day passes on any bus line even for months when I expect to
travel frequently - plans change or one can get sick and then the "investment" is wasted.
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
16 Positive for those who use this fare.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
17 So much saving for everyone it is good.2/14/2022 2:48 PM
18 Reducing the price is always positive, saves money for passengers.2/14/2022 1:26 PM
19 I definitely think that by reducing the monthly fare to $30 the BBB is effectively making each
day of the month $1 per day. That is a tremendous savings for people who have limited
financial resources.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
20 See above 2/14/2022 12:55 PM
21 This would increase ridership 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
22 Limited use as many times need to connect with Metro.2/14/2022 11:51 AM
23 again, great for riders but please don't skimp on paying drivers, maintaining clean & well-
functioning buses, and keeping bus stops clean and safe - these are the most important
2/14/2022 11:11 AM
24 Where is the money coming from to cover this? Is there a government grant?2/14/2022 10:41 AM
25 O course, it is always positive to reduce cost, BUT NOT AT THE COST OF REDUCEING
SERVICE, which is now at an all time low. I had to wait yesterday for over an hour to catch a
#8 bus, and the bus driver himself told me that only one #12 ran yesterday. How long are you
going to overpay for grotesquely ineffective management?
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
26 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
27 Welcome the savings!2/13/2022 9:42 AM
28 hella!2/10/2022 9:01 PM
29 More customers 2/10/2022 8:59 PM
30 Any discount for bundled passes is a great one 2/10/2022 6:42 PM
31 I buy my 30 day pass every month. It would get a good impact in my wallet.2/10/2022 5:30 PM
32 As a low income family, this is a very positive thing for me.2/10/2022 4:45 PM
33 The reduction in price is appropriate, is the Pass applied to the TAP card? Or does a separate
pass have to be purchased each month?
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
34 makes sense 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
35 lower costs are always beneficial 2/10/2022 2:02 PM
36 more riders 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
37 Reducing to $30 is good so people can pay it very cheaper on those passes 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
38 Probably cause buses to be too crowded 2/9/2022 11:28 PM
39 This makes sense with the proposed fare changes.2/9/2022 10:04 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1437 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
83 / 175
40 The drop in the price would work well for riders.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
41 I don’t know.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
42 Reducing the price of public transportation is always good, even though I don't use this pass.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
43 Those who can afford to buy a 30-Day Pass can pay the higher price, plus they're likely to
really need the service, and thus would be OK to pay the higher price. I recommend keeping
the 30-Day Pass at a price closer to $50.
2/9/2022 4:48 PM
44 Would probably help ridership population; along with making a difference with the personal
budget of many!
2/9/2022 4:08 PM
45 Lower prices are needed on all transit. This hardly makes up for the extra expense of having to
buy these plastic cards, and the wasted time searching for the rare locations that sell them
and having to go there so often.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
46 Many people who buy this pass do not actually use it every day of the week, so this would be
beneficial
2/9/2022 1:41 PM
47 This is cheaper for frequent Santa Monica Transit riders.2/8/2022 8:08 PM
48 That's wonderful. However, I wonder how much is the 30-day Pass for Senior/Disable/Medicare
riders who takes the bus rides for Santa Monica Bug Blue Bus?
2/8/2022 2:07 PM
49 Cheaper fares = more ridership 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
50 It will make riders inclined to buy it more often.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
51 Encourage people to use public transportation daily 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
52 What a great rate!2/8/2022 4:35 AM
53 I’m use 30 day pass I’m feel very Happy reduce $30.00 thank you I love big blue bus 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
54 Your paying customers deserve a break in how much they pay for fare. This is a great saving!2/7/2022 10:47 PM
55 Rolling 30 days? Or calendar?2/7/2022 9:10 PM
56 Stone the crows!2/7/2022 7:42 PM
57 I don't purchase 30-day passes.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
58 Reasonable 2/7/2022 6:42 PM
59 only this way I can afford it. Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s
finances.
2/7/2022 2:57 PM
60 This is a very generous stroke, and should positively increase ridership 2/7/2022 2:54 PM
61 As a regular work commuter on low income that doesn't qualify for life program, it sounds
good. Does that include free bbb transfer?
2/7/2022 2:28 PM
62 Lowers the cost.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
63 Doesn't affect me.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
64 For commuters, I suppose.2/7/2022 1:49 PM
65 Monthly passes make sense. Lower the price for these passes? Why? People who can pay
should continue to pay. Low income people should pay nothing.
2/7/2022 1:46 PM
66 Should be priced at or around 22.50 2/7/2022 12:43 PM
67 Same reasons as above.2/7/2022 12:34 PM
68 This would encourage the growth of rider patrons.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
69 For Humanitarian reasons, it is good BUT for business is is not.2/7/2022 11:43 AM
70 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
71 Stop reducing revenue.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1438 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
84 / 175
72 Great!2/7/2022 11:32 AM
73 Why would anyone do a 30 day pass when the fare is currently $1? I think that $15 per 30days
makes it more appealing as a choice
2/7/2022 11:23 AM
74 dollar a day or dollar a ride has nice ring to it.2/7/2022 11:13 AM
75 If consecutive days, may have negative impact.2/7/2022 11:10 AM
76 This would be huge. I’m sure $20 means a lot to many people!2/7/2022 11:01 AM
77 Good!2/7/2022 11:01 AM
78 yes! people are poor 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
79 Great! But also, make it free.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
80 Generally I am in favor of fare reduction. Though personally my priorities are more frequent and
reliable service.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
81 When my car soon goes in the shop for overhaul and then body work and paint, a 30-day pass
will be splendid, even at $50, but $30 makes it a no-brainer.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
82 Seems reasonable 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
83 I appreciate the fare decrease.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
84 What a dumb question.2/7/2022 10:52 AM
85 My work pays for public transportation, so this would benefit my employer.2/7/2022 10:51 AM
86 It’s more affordable for many people of low income 2/7/2022 10:49 AM
87 Great!!!! It’s public transportation, it’s already subsided.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
88 Cost effective?2/7/2022 10:48 AM
89 Yes!!!! We love more accessibility and affordability!!!2/7/2022 10:48 AM
90 Most people don’t need to take the bus everyday, so it should be less. If it isn’t, people will
just purchase the Single tickets.
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
91 Very helpful to low income, employed people.2/7/2022 10:48 AM
92 this helps with making the pass more accesible to folks 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
93 Thatd be huge for people like me, who ride BBB twice a day and still find it doesnt work out
financially to buy a 30 day pass.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
94 This would save me loads of money on monthly trips. I currently don’t ride enough for the $50
to make sense, but $30 would be perfect.
2/7/2022 10:41 AM
95 I think doing Free Fair off peak hours would have a bigger impact than reducing the fair.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
96 That to me seems like a win-win for both.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
97 Closer to free the better.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
98 WE NEED THIS.2/7/2022 10:36 AM
99 Any price reduction seems a good thing 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
100 If you forget your tap card, the monthly pass is $0 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
101 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
102 Wonderful during these hard times!2/4/2022 2:41 PM
103 This, probably more than the other changes, will encourage more people to take public transit.
It'll also save me money.
2/2/2022 9:23 PM
104 20.00$2/2/2022 7:37 AM
105 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1439 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
85 / 175
106 This is great!1/31/2022 10:54 AM
107 Excellent idea!1/30/2022 9:24 PM
108 Reducing the price of 30 day passes will help the environment by encouraging more people to
ride your bus system. Reducing the price of your 30 day pass will show more humane
treatment and economic justice towards low-income persons who would find it difficult to afford
the higher proce pass.
1/30/2022 12:38 PM
109 $50 price point made no sense as it did not give an incentive to pre-pay for the month.1/28/2022 8:13 AM
110 This will encourage more people to use Big Blue Bus.1/27/2022 11:35 PM
111 Need to be able to use Metro sometimes too.1/27/2022 8:17 PM
112 yes in favor 1/27/2022 7:49 PM
113 That is a fantastic and inclusive idea 1/27/2022 5:38 PM
114 Keep it at $50 as it still offers a minimum of $10 discount for those that use it even if only for 1
round trip/day patrons.
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
115 Sure 1/27/2022 4:54 PM
116 Everyone needs a pricing decrease as everything else is going up in pricing.1/27/2022 4:53 PM
117 Will help with many on a tight budget 1/27/2022 2:55 PM
118 Yeah this one is it make it a little cheaper covid has hit everyone one hard and increasing
prices isn’t a good thing
1/27/2022 2:42 PM
119 Given the need to recoup lost ridership, this option works well on a trial period.1/27/2022 2:39 PM
120 I prefer keeping the revenue up for the bus. $50 is fine! Bus ridership is declining because of
the unsafe riders (homeless, mentally ill), not the fares
1/27/2022 2:18 PM
121 This is the pass that should be most beneficial to regular riders and should receive greatest
discount
1/27/2022 2:00 PM
122 The price of the pass is already low enough that it is not a concern; I am concerned that
lowering fares will eventually lead to longer delays between buses. BBB needs to focus on
increasing the number of buses servicing the city, not lowering the fares,
1/27/2022 8:48 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1440 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
86 / 175
49.06%339
30.82%213
14.33%99
1.45%10
1.16%8
3.18%22
Q12 Reduce the price of the Senior/Disabled/Medicare 30-Day Pass from
$24.00 to $20.00.
Answered: 691 Skipped: 24
TOTAL 691
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Same reasons as above.2/17/2022 2:01 PM
2 SDM 30 day pass should be half of the regular day pass. This is also not aligned with the fact
that senior fares are half that of regular fares.
2/17/2022 8:14 AM
3 It will help the seniors 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
4 Reduce the cost! This is a good move 2/16/2022 9:35 PM
5 Makes it easier to load the tap card with even digits.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
6 Supports the value of riding the bus. Economizing is a clean ride.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1441 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
87 / 175
7 Who is going to further subsidize this?2/15/2022 3:42 PM
8 Lowering the prices is a good idea. Disabled people need lower prices, and the seniors too.2/15/2022 2:52 PM
9 Give these folks a break 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
10 Agree and i’m using it !2/15/2022 9:01 AM
11 Same as 11.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
12 I save money 2/15/2022 2:13 AM
13 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
14 For seniors who have this month or so need for transit.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
15 We're struggling enough as it is. that way you can implement it at MTA train stations 2/14/2022 3:23 PM
16 Much better more savings.2/14/2022 2:48 PM
17 I definitely think that the BBB should reduce the fare for seniors and people with disabilities to
$20 for a 30 day period because the BBB is effectively giving a 13 cent discount to seniors
and people with disabilities per day.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
18 I use the Big Blue only occasionally 2/14/2022 12:55 PM
19 Again should be free 2/14/2022 12:04 PM
20 same as above 2/14/2022 11:11 AM
21 Vide supra.2/14/2022 10:31 AM
22 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
23 Seniors are on a fixed income...all allowances should be made to them and to disabled.2/14/2022 10:16 AM
24 The pricing for this pass should be 50 percent of the regular pass.2/11/2022 3:31 PM
25 Should be free 2/11/2022 11:13 AM
26 Good for seniors. Their income is generally not sufficient for daily living.2/10/2022 7:52 PM
27 Again, the reduction is appropriate, but will I need to purchase a new pass each month, or will
this discount be reflected on my Senior TAP card?
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
28 sure 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
29 lower costs are always beneficial 2/10/2022 2:02 PM
30 so many seniors need the transportation. This would be alternate to allowable transfers.
Seniors often need 3 bus routes to get to medical appts.
2/10/2022 11:26 AM
31 great 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
32 Reducing to $20 is good so people can pay it very cheaper on those passes 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
33 This makes sense with the proposed fare changes.2/9/2022 10:04 PM
34 For those who pay less, it would be a great idea.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
35 You think seniors are made of money? Drop the price from $24 to $10.2/9/2022 6:21 PM
36 Good for seniors and disabled. They,(we) have enough problems as it is. It would be great to
have simple, easy,affordable bus rides ; especially for those who may be having cognitive
decline and driving.
2/9/2022 5:47 PM
37 Reducing the price of public transportation is always good, even though I don't use this pass.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
38 See above comment boxes! :):)2/9/2022 4:08 PM
39 That is a really small price reduction. These are vulnerable populations that would be impacted
especially badly by the quickly rising prices now on basics like food. This is practically nothing
as far as the money difficulties many of them must be facing. And you're trying to take away
their daily pass option too??
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1442 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
88 / 175
40 This is cheaper for frequent Santa Monica Transit riders.2/8/2022 8:08 PM
41 That's also wonderful and no additional comments are necessary.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
42 Cheaper fares = more ridership 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
43 Same applies to this population.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
44 Seniors need that help 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
45 Again, what outreach is there for this consumer base?2/7/2022 9:10 PM
46 This one's for your mama's mama.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
47 I don't purchase 30-day senior passes because I use the bus only 20 days a week, mostly.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
48 Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s finances.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
49 Thank you 2/7/2022 2:54 PM
50 Does include free transfer?2/7/2022 2:28 PM
51 Same as above.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
52 Doesn't affect me.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
53 Don’t need this pass. Everyone pays the same unless they are a student or low income.2/7/2022 1:46 PM
54 Most people who fall into this category have limited finances, this will allow them to make daily
commutes.
2/7/2022 1:00 PM
55 Their passes should be priced at 10-14$2/7/2022 12:43 PM
56 No pass 2/7/2022 12:37 PM
57 See above 2/7/2022 12:34 PM
58 This option would help support our elderly population.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
59 I'm not a Senior yet 2/7/2022 11:43 AM
60 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
61 Stop reducing revenue.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
62 Great for seniors!2/7/2022 11:32 AM
63 Seniors should ride free like in Chicago!2/7/2022 11:32 AM
64 If consecutive days, may have negative impact.2/7/2022 11:10 AM
65 How to obtain these passes? Big Blue doesnt make it simple. Please bring back cash boxes 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
66 15 2/7/2022 11:01 AM
67 Are those rides intended to apply to a31 day month? Can the rides be 2 r/t in a day?2/7/2022 11:01 AM
68 Sounds great, make it free.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
69 Let them ride free 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
70 I appreciate the fare decrease.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
71 Great.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
72 Absolutely love affordability and accessibility yes please 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
73 I hope BBB will take the time to really advertise these fare changes to encourage people to
use BBB more often!
2/7/2022 10:45 AM
74 Should be free 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
75 Way too many options 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
76 if the regular 30 day pass is being discounted 40% and the student pass more than 40%so
should the senior pass
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1443 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
89 / 175
77 Closer to free the better.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
78 I'd make it $15 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
79 I'm old.2/7/2022 10:36 AM
80 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
81 Again, great offer!2/4/2022 2:41 PM
82 If people are on a fixed income, any discount helps.2/2/2022 9:23 PM
83 15.00$2/2/2022 7:37 AM
84 The metro S/D/M pass is less than the BBB S/D/M price, and you can get a lot further using
metro than you can using the BBB. Why on earth should you pay *more* for a system that
gives you less? Besides the fact that Santa Monica has gotten so pretentious in the last
decade.
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
85 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
86 Good $20, prefer $15 for a month.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
87 Why not match it with the Youth 30-Day pass price?1/27/2022 11:35 PM
88 Need to be able to use Metro sometimes too if need to go a little bit further than Big Blue goes.1/27/2022 8:17 PM
89 No opinion on the matter 1/27/2022 5:01 PM
90 Sure 1/27/2022 4:54 PM
91 Given the need to recoup lost ridership, this option works well on a trial period.1/27/2022 2:39 PM
92 Makes sense to encourage this pass 1/27/2022 2:00 PM
93 If the price reduction proposed here is matched with a small price for riders (such as myself)
who are not financially disadvantaged, the net effect could be positive. However, making this
change by itself is unlikely to lead to any improvements.
1/27/2022 8:48 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1444 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
90 / 175
52.54%362
26.85%185
14.37%99
1.45%10
1.60%11
3.19%22
Q13 Permanently reduce the price of the Youth 30-Day Pass from $38.00
(temporarily available for $19.00) to $19.00.
Answered: 689 Skipped: 26
TOTAL 689
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Same reasons as above.2/17/2022 2:01 PM
2 Will help the young riders 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 This is a great idea! Look into making it completely free 2/16/2022 9:35 PM
4 or free 2/16/2022 4:47 PM
5 I'd go for $20.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
6 Help youth value riding the bus. Economizing is a clean future.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
7 awesome!2/16/2022 12:40 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1445 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
91 / 175
8 Get kids hooked on buses.2/15/2022 5:46 PM
9 Lowering the prices is a good idea. Kids should be able to pay less.2/15/2022 2:52 PM
10 Same as 11.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
11 Are you hearing that youth can't afford the $38? Have you seen a noticeable uptake in Youth
30Day passes with the reduced fee? Will it result in revenue loss/subsidies? Not sure why this
is being considered.
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
12 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
13 revenue 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
14 No issue for me.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
15 Parents already are having a hard time paying for family expenses with rising prices. So the
cheaper bus fare for children can be lowered, the better. And some kids are made to pay for
their own expenses too, so they shouldn't be charged high prices for basics like bus rides.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
16 Assuming GoPass free rides for youth are not made permanent, keeping prices low for youth
is desirable.
2/14/2022 2:12 PM
17 I definitely think that the BBB should reduce the youth 30 day pass to $19 per month because
the youth have to take the BBB to/from school each school day and the BBB is giving the
youth 50% of of the $38 fare product. Youth usually have to get their fare for their monthly
pass from their parents.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
18 I'm not sure you know what permanently means. This is a very changing economy. Just look
at what you're thinking of doing now.
2/14/2022 12:55 PM
19 "Permanently reduce the price...." Seriously? Do you know how long permanently is?2/14/2022 12:45 PM
20 Youth should ride free, period.2/14/2022 12:24 PM
21 maybe the fare reductions you are planning are a bit too steep for the health of BBB?2/14/2022 11:11 AM
22 Permanently, as in forever? Or for a couple of years 2/14/2022 10:41 AM
23 Vide supra.2/14/2022 10:31 AM
24 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
25 Youths today do not use the bus.2/14/2022 10:16 AM
26 Should be free 2/11/2022 11:13 AM
27 I like the reduce price . Have 2 students.2/10/2022 4:45 PM
28 Because, kids. They need to get around.2/10/2022 4:09 PM
29 youth shouldnt be charged so much 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
30 lower costs are always beneficial 2/10/2022 2:02 PM
31 great 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
32 Reducing to $19 is good so people can pay it very cheaper on those passes 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
33 More youth ride the bus than the elderly 2/9/2022 11:40 PM
34 Anything to encourage youth to leave the car home (no drop off at schools)2/9/2022 10:04 PM
35 Having lower prices for riders works well.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
36 You think kids are made of money? Drop the price to $10.2/9/2022 6:21 PM
37 I don’t know.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
38 Reducing the price of public transportation is always good, even though I don't use this pass.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
39 Students should ride for free.2/9/2022 4:39 PM
40 Again, consider the budgets of many struggling parents!2/9/2022 4:08 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1446 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
92 / 175
41 It's sad that you were charging children that much money for basic transportation, especially in
this city when we need to be doing so much more to encourage public transport and reduce
congestion and pollution.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
42 Many youth do no have access to alternative modes of transportation due to age (ie cannot
legally drive) or being unable to afford a car. Additionally, many lack a guardian who is always
available to drive them around at certain hours of the day. This becomes an issue when youth
like high schoolers have after-school activities to attend to better their admission chances to
college. Cheaper fares reduces the financial burden on youth, many of whom do not earn an
income, to be more mobile and seek more opportunities outside school and home.
2/9/2022 9:56 AM
43 This is cheaper for Santa Monica Transit riders in K-12 schools, this should also expand to
colleges, especially UCLA and SMC.
2/8/2022 8:08 PM
44 That's also wonderful and no additional comments are necessary.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
45 Cheaper fares = more ridership 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
46 It may make it easier for adolescents to go about the city affordable rather than having a car or
feeling as if they cannot afford the monthly pass.
2/8/2022 10:49 AM
47 Encourage to use public transportation. Good habit to have 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
48 Go back to $38? People will see this as doubling the price, not returning to normal. The streets
will run red with ... fruit punch as they find out in the middle of snack time.
2/7/2022 7:42 PM
49 Doesn't affect me as a senior.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
50 Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s finances.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
51 Students will appreciate the reduced cost.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
52 Doesn't affect me.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
53 Students should all ride to school for free as they do now. Permanently get rid of fates for
students
2/7/2022 1:46 PM
54 This could allow many youth age people to be able to commute with less financial strain.2/7/2022 1:00 PM
55 No pass 2/7/2022 12:37 PM
56 See above 2/7/2022 12:34 PM
57 Our youth population depend on parents to provide their livelihoods. This option would help
households keep their heads above water.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
58 These youngsters will learn the value of their parents' hard earned money if they try NOT TO
GO OUT ANYTIME they want to...they should help around the household chores.
2/7/2022 11:43 AM
59 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
60 Make youth pass free. It’s crazy to charge kids to use a public bus.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
61 This will work well for people who are adjusting to a post-Covid economy and MORE people
will ride if it’s affordable.
2/7/2022 11:32 AM
62 Don’t they ride free now?2/7/2022 11:32 AM
63 As an adult, I don't see why a youth needs a different type of pass. They take up the same
amount of space and shared cost.
2/7/2022 11:23 AM
64 my son rode public alot this would have been good for him.2/7/2022 11:13 AM
65 Kids are publicly safer riding the bus.2/7/2022 11:10 AM
66 Where to obtain these passes? Pls make it essy 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
67 Very important and great!2/7/2022 11:03 AM
68 Excellent for family budget. And no freebys 2/7/2022 11:01 AM
69 You’re on the right track. Stop charging altogether and you might have something.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1447 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
93 / 175
70 Local bus should be cheap. $19.00 is reasonable, not quite cheap. $38.00 is substantial.2/7/2022 10:58 AM
71 College students used to ride free. Good times 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
72 I purchase a pass for my child and it helps greatly.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
73 YES! YES! YES!2/7/2022 10:52 AM
74 Id say $20 2/7/2022 10:49 AM
75 Great.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
76 Yesssss alleviates a financial stress on families and makes it more accessible 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
77 Most helpful to families using the bus to take their children to school, maybe even have some
traffic benefit!
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
78 Should be free 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
79 I don't know enough about that sort of thing to make a comment 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
80 Closer to free the better.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
81 If you could afford to keep it at 19$ at some point you can continue doing this 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
82 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
83 Encourages young people to ride the bus instead of drive.2/5/2022 9:35 AM
84 Very important change! Yes!2/4/2022 2:41 PM
85 See above, pretty much.2/1/2022 4:53 PM
86 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
87 Public transit should still be free for all, but especially youth 1/31/2022 10:54 AM
88 Good $19, prefer $15 would encourage youth to take bus rides.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
89 Why not match it with the Senior 30-Day pass?1/27/2022 11:35 PM
90 Yes, that would encourage our youth to have better access to public transportation 1/27/2022 5:38 PM
91 Youth should ride free 1/27/2022 5:34 PM
92 Implement it on a trial 1/27/2022 5:01 PM
93 Or just let youth ride free. We want to get them in the bus habit sooner rather than later.1/27/2022 4:54 PM
94 Good For Considering The Financial Situation Of Students.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
95 Will help alot of parent and students with expenses 1/27/2022 2:55 PM
96 Keep the revenue up. Are teenagers using the bus much? I don’t think I have seen that many 1/27/2022 2:18 PM
97 I would suggest $20, not $19. Easier to remember.1/27/2022 1:08 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1448 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
94 / 175
17.90%123
13.10%90
35.81%246
8.59%59
5.24%36
19.36%133
Q14 No longer sell or accept Big Blue Bus magnetic stripe paper passes.
Answered: 687 Skipped: 28
TOTAL 687
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 I didn't even know they still worked.2/17/2022 8:14 AM
2 Since you do not accept cash is ok 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 Didn't know they were still in existence.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
4 Too much paper can be reduced. The bits and pieces of BBB payment structures can be
consolidated and made more coherent.
2/16/2022 2:18 PM
5 We really like using paper passes. Its the easiest way for us. I don't know why you want to
stop selling them. I think you should be accepting them too, for bus rides. You should always
be accepting passes and tickets that you sold to people.
2/15/2022 2:52 PM
6 Tap card only or mobile tx 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
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Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
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Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1449 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
95 / 175
7 Mag stripe paper passes probably less expensive to produce than TAP cards, but streamlining
would be positive.
2/15/2022 5:07 AM
8 Cost/benefit?2/14/2022 10:55 PM
9 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
10 simplify fare 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
11 Know nothing about these magnets.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
12 Just one card "TAP" again keeping it simple.2/14/2022 3:50 PM
13 those are cool if we can get them w/ TAP cards if they can't be used as TAP 2/14/2022 3:23 PM
14 Some people prefer to use cash and paper passes. Lots of them have disliked this new no
paper passes rule. Some of our neighbors and older relatives just realized that the buses aren't
accepting their paper passes anymore that they bought right before covid started, and they're
really unhappy. Lots of them had to stop riding buses for their safety, and cause almost all
events were canceled anyway so there was nowhere to go. Now they've been starting to go out
again and use buses after they got vaccinated and their events and meetings are happening
again in person. But they are told their passes are no good anymore, and they have to go to
the store in santa monica to sort it out. And it's not easy for them to get all the way there on
weekdays. And then a few of them were told the paper passes just won't be accepted anymore
at all, and they won't be given any passes in exchange, so a lot of then are quite upset over
this. I don't feel it's a fair thing to do to them. People have had a hard enough time cause of
the covid pandemic, and it's not right to be causing them more problems now when they're
trying to get back to their normal lives after 2 years by canceling bus passes they were
planning to use.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
15 Almost no one uses these and they don't always work.2/14/2022 2:12 PM
16 Should still be an option. Not everyone has access to cell phones or internet to load fares on
TAP/mobile pass.
2/14/2022 1:26 PM
17 It still helps to use paper card 2/14/2022 1:23 PM
18 Paper fare products are antiquated and should be removed from the BBB fare system.2/14/2022 1:13 PM
19 Stop erecting barriers to public transit use.2/14/2022 12:24 PM
20 This would save the trees and better for environment 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
21 Idiotic.2/14/2022 10:31 AM
22 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
23 Why discontinue, what is the benefit?2/14/2022 10:16 AM
24 Simplification of fare media is a good thing.2/14/2022 10:08 AM
25 This is just petty. Our community has been unhappy that you stopped selling paper passes
because lots of people liked them better than what you're doing now and just found them easier
to use, but we've been especially upset that your buses stopped accepting previously bought
passes. I know some people who've misplaced unused passes in the chaos of the pandemic
and only recently found them again, only to be told they're no good anymore on the bus.
People have had to struggle with lots of problems like losing jobs and finding new ones and
having to move to save money and dealing with pretty much having to homeschool their kids.
Many needed to stop using buses during this time due to losing or changing work and infection
risk. It's no wonder plenty have lost track of things like unused bus passes and tokens when
they had so many more urgent things to take up their time. Abruptly cancelling them is in such
incredibly poor spirit of you. There must be thousands of people in this large city who still have
BBB passes and tokens lying around that they could have a need to use in future.
2/11/2022 3:31 PM
26 Would be better for stripe paper to be accepted but not sold 2/11/2022 2:30 PM
27 OMG. I have over $10 on my TAP card! I feel the BBB should redeem that for me.2/10/2022 7:52 PM
28 It'll be a good come back because people will pay the fare with no excuses.2/10/2022 5:30 PM
29 Paper passes can be lost or damaged, but TAP cards value is protected if you lose the card 2/10/2022 4:09 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1450 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
96 / 175
30 there should just be one form of payment (tap)2/10/2022 2:11 PM
31 This is very confusing because they are no longer available 2/10/2022 2:02 PM
32 There are numerous people who don’t have a tap card to tap and they feel like they should
keep buying the magnetic stripe paper passes so that alternatively in case if they don’t have a
tap card then please keep selling the magnetic stripe paper passes please
2/10/2022 3:20 AM
33 The passes should work for people who are coming from out of town or those who commute by
bus to work.
2/9/2022 7:52 PM
34 This is biased and you know it.2/9/2022 6:21 PM
35 I never heard of it.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
36 I don't like it but I understand the reason, and anyway if someone doesn't have the cash, they
can still ride.
2/9/2022 5:11 PM
37 Doesn't paper have less of an environmental impact 2/9/2022 4:08 PM
38 My family members sometimes needed to use these, and we need to be able to buy them on
the bus since there's nowhere else to buy them when you unexpectedly find that you need to
use a bbb bus. Most in my family often only have cash on us, so that's the only way to pay for
bus fare. Also it's less of a money loss if you lose a paper pass, or have it stolen, than if you
lose the plastic card. My family in particular used the 13 ride paper passes because they could
be used by several family members on different days, and we needed the flexibility as we only
have one car to share, and sometimes it's in the shop and everyone needs to use the bus. We
would buy them in stacks of 6-10 at a time so we didn't have to trek too often to the only store
in the area that sold them. We realized recently that we still have unused bbb paper passes
lying around. Most of us were staying home due to the pandemic since work and school was
switched to online, so we didn't need to use the bus for a while. Now we have unused paper
passes that apparently your agency refuses to accept as bus fare, even though we legitimately
paid money for them. Personally I feel upset and duped over this. My family works hard to
earn money and we also had some hardship due to the pandemic, and we can't afford to be
unexpectedly losing several dozen dollars down the drain for things like randomly cancelled
bus passes. Also when I told some of my friends about you refusing to accept previously
purchased paper passes, one of them said she also still had some unused paper passes and
was upset over this.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
39 Integrate ride passes to one's TAP card 2/9/2022 1:24 PM
40 That's also wonderful and no additional comments are necessary.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
41 I would say don’t stop accepting them abruptly. Begin to phase them out throughout like a six
month or one year period giving people time to become familiar with the contactless payments
2/8/2022 1:58 PM
42 Moving to TAP Cards only as a single standard for all transit providers in LA County is great
for integrating the wider transit network.
2/8/2022 1:51 PM
43 Reducing waste is the goal of the community.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
44 Should continue to accept any paper passes people may already have. (?)2/7/2022 11:10 PM
45 Is better no contact 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
46 For the above questions, I think BBB has a better answer than the public. Why do not know if
selling these passes creates an issue and if so HOW.
2/7/2022 10:47 PM
47 Don’t know how many people rely on this 2/7/2022 9:58 PM
48 Yeah lets get rid of that.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
49 I use the TAP card on my phone.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
50 Economize. Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s finances.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
51 Don't know what they are 2/7/2022 2:28 PM
52 I see them too n the sidewalk as litter.2/7/2022 2:08 PM
53 Probably better for the environment, anyway....h 2/7/2022 1:54 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1451 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
97 / 175
54 Unless you are refunding their value. I still have many 2/7/2022 1:49 PM
55 Agree they are wasteful. But visitors can return their plastic cards and get back the $2. Like a
bottle deposit.
2/7/2022 1:46 PM
56 Allow for contactless payment to become a normal transaction.2/7/2022 1:00 PM
57 People already carry too many plastic cards 2/7/2022 12:43 PM
58 This is more sustainable for the environment!2/7/2022 12:41 PM
59 Makes sense, but would be good to accept passes from people who might have purchased
them before the change happened (if that even applies)
2/7/2022 12:38 PM
60 Idk … … mever used them 2/7/2022 12:37 PM
61 Reduces waste 2/7/2022 12:07 PM
62 depends upon why users use these passes and the equivalent substitute. Just remember that
getting and keeping cards loaded is more of a hassle then you realize. machine do not always
work, they are not near many people, etc. office hours are limited, and so forth.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
63 I assume this change would be environmentally kind.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
64 Harms those who don’t already have a plastic card. They might not be able to afford to get
one.
2/7/2022 11:52 AM
65 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
66 Reduce waste 2/7/2022 11:35 AM
67 Not sure how this is used.2/7/2022 11:32 AM
68 Cards are the more "green" option 2/7/2022 11:23 AM
69 again, not everyone is going to have access to a digital tap card so this is allowing those riders
to have access to the bus regardless of whether they have a smart device or not
2/7/2022 11:19 AM
70 Still accept, no longer sell is kinder 2/7/2022 11:07 AM
71 How many people still use these on a day to day ??2/7/2022 11:04 AM
72 I’ve never heard of or seen these.2/7/2022 11:01 AM
73 Maybe those strippers could be for the courtesy rides on a limited time window. Unless the
printed ones have run out. If so- then the cost may not be practical.
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
74 I’m all for less waste. I don’t know if tap cards are much better for that.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
75 This is already in place.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
76 If TAP cards work as quickly as mag-stripe paper cards, then OK. If it means everyone has to
queue as they "scan" their iPhone, no.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
77 Don’t really understand why. Maintenance? Maybe the machines are more expensive than the
app scanners
2/7/2022 10:53 AM
78 Many don’t own mobile devices or up to date smart phones.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
79 Yea those seem fucking stupid, probably never used anymore.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
80 I am concerned if those might be hard for houseless to keep the plastic and not get an extra
fee, but game to try
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
81 People for whatever reason have or don’t have access to different forms of payment. Why
eliminate them at all?
2/7/2022 10:44 AM
82 As long as tap cards are accessible.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
83 big blue bus made the switch already! Can not find or purchase!2/7/2022 10:43 AM
84 OPTIONS. PEOPLE NEED OPTIONS. Not everyone is technologically savvy. You need to be
MORE inclusive, not less! Because that's precisely what Santa Monica is about - inclusivity. I
seriously hope this is getting you to remember your priorities.
2/7/2022 10:42 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1452 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
98 / 175
85 If cash is being eliminated, this should remain an option 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
86 Never used them 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
87 More penalties for non tech people (older, poorer, etc 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
88 Ecologically this is a bad idea to begin with 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
89 Those things were annoying and requires explaining to use 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
90 There are still people that have no phone or hard time using the phone and they are usually
suing the bus
2/7/2022 10:31 AM
91 One tap card for all transits saves the environment and can simplify everyone lives.2/7/2022 10:14 AM
92 Not necessary 2/4/2022 2:41 PM
93 TAP cards are reusable, but paper passes weren't.2/2/2022 9:23 PM
94 My family and other families we know still have some of these paper passes lying around that
we've not had a chance to use because of the pandemic. We were all very upset to learn that
you're now refusing to accept them, and won't even exchange them for any passes we could
use. We only learned of this recently. We never imagined that you could do such a thing when
we bought the passes. They cost us money, and no one ever told us that you could randomly
decide to just cancel them after we paid good money for them. This is awful.
2/2/2022 4:27 PM
95 If you're going contactless and thus willing to give out courtesy rides, then you can do away
with this. Otherwise, you should keep it.
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
96 Plenty of people still have unused paper passes that they have not had the opportunity to use
or exchange due to life circumstances, not being aware that they are being phased out, or due
to the pandemic. You only provided a very short amount of time for people to learn about this
and exchange them. During a multi-year-long PANDEMIC. There's a ton of people who wouldn't
have had the chance to even hear about this, much less be able to get themselves over to
your ONE single physical store which is in an inconvenient location for most people and has
extremely LIMITED HOURS. You are ripping off many of your previously loyal customers by
doing this. I was appalled to learn that my paper passes which I paid good money for were no
longer good for bus fare, and wouldn't even be accepted for exchange anymore when I was
finally able to come to your store in person during your ridiculous "business hours". People
paid their hard-earned money for your official passes, which have NO EXPIRATION DATES;
you have no right to randomly invalidate them unless your agency has completely gone out of
business - and you've clearly not gone out of business. It costs you nothing to continue
accepting them for fare or for exchange; it is just selfishness, bureaucratic excuses and spite
that has you deciding to refuse to help customers who bring in valid unused passes with no
expiration dates.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
97 What are the demographics of the users of the magnetic stripe paper passes? If they're a tool
used by aid organizations to help homeless people get to where they need to go, than making
it more difficult to get places is just mean.
1/31/2022 9:52 PM
98 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
99 Unsure about a situation where someone loses another pass and might need to speedily
replace their pass with a paper pass until they can get another extended pass?!
1/31/2022 8:39 AM
100 Yes. Learning curve, tap cards or smartphone.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
101 Some of us still have these. Will BBB offer to reimburse us for the cost if we take them to the
Big Blue store?
1/30/2022 1:41 PM
102 Where can you get those passes? I used to purchase them at the library, but usually the
libraries would run out and now with Covid, NO passes are being sold near me....MAKE IT
EASIER TO BUY A TICKET!
1/28/2022 1:13 PM
103 I thought passes were already on TAP cards.1/27/2022 11:35 PM
104 Some people don't have access to computers so they can't load passes on their TAP card. It
would be easier for people to pay cash on board and get a paper pass.
1/27/2022 7:15 PM
105 While I am strictly for keeping the cash payment in tact, paper passes need to go. This will 1/27/2022 5:01 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1453 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
99 / 175
encourage more users to TAP
106 Big Blue Bus Magnetic Stripe Paper Passes are NOT Very good. Too Many Technical Issues
Occur.
1/27/2022 4:11 PM
107 I thought they were already discontinued 1/27/2022 2:55 PM
108 Magnetic stripe passes are a dated technology and there are more contextually relevant
choices out there which can better track rider data.
1/27/2022 2:39 PM
109 Great environmental change, less trash.1/27/2022 2:19 PM
110 I’ve had them and they would stop working 1/27/2022 2:18 PM
111 As long as whatever the alternative is doesn’t require a phone this could be good.1/27/2022 2:02 PM
112 I understand that the magnetic stripes were very unreliable, and they increased boarding times.
As I have not used a BBB magnetic stripe pass in over a decade this doesn't impact me.
1/27/2022 2:00 PM
113 In the long run, the paper passes were an unnecessary expense for BBB and provided little
benefit over reusable plastic card (or smartphone apps). BBB might want to continue to accept
the passes for a period of time after ending the sales.
1/27/2022 8:48 AM
114 I thought you already did…1/27/2022 8:16 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1454 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
100 / 175
19.71%134
15.44%105
35.44%241
11.62%79
5.59%38
12.21%83
Q15 No longer accept Big Blue Bus tokens. (Big Blue Bus discontinued
selling tokens in December 2017, but some legacy tokens remain in
circulation.)
Answered: 680 Skipped: 35
TOTAL 680
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 They have not been used 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
2 Start selling a Bus Token collection card to hold them and give rewards when they are filled.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
3 While I cherish the old-school tokens, there are not enough riders who would make good use of
them. Why not put the word out to turn any in for a new TAP card?
2/16/2022 2:18 PM
4 You should always be accepting passes and tickets that you sold to people. The tokens too, if
you sold them in the past. I'm sure some people still have some somewhere that they couldnt
find for awhile.
2/15/2022 2:52 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
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don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1455 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
101 / 175
5 I still have a few from decades ago, collectors item maybe 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
6 I think most cities have stopped selling tokens, so this is fine to end this program.2/15/2022 9:24 AM
7 Miss tokens but they’re already discontinued.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
8 Didn't you change all of your BBB machines by now? I think everyone has moved on from
tokens. If you want to offer a chance for people to bring tokens into BBB Transit Office to
redeem into TAP card, I'd support that.
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
9 BBB should buy back legacy tokens or allow them to be traded for passes or other form of
credit.
2/14/2022 7:14 PM
10 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
11 simplify fare 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
12 I still have some tokens I haven't used, and expect others might also. I used to carry them in
my coin purse in case I forgot to reload cash value or pass to TAP card, for peace of mind that
I could somewhere and/or get home!
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
13 Could redeem them for customers who stashed them away...just in case.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
14 some agencies won't adapt, those who desperately need them w/b hurt 2/14/2022 3:23 PM
15 I don't think it's fair for you to be canceling any of your old passes or tokens. Of course it will
have a negative impact on people who still have these items. It's especially not right to refuse
to accept fare types that you sold to people in the last 10 years.
2/14/2022 2:35 PM
16 N/a 2/14/2022 2:27 PM
17 Tokens are like coins in that people fumble for them as they board and slow down boarding.2/14/2022 2:12 PM
18 Unsure about this unless passengers are able to get a refund for their tokens if they are no
longer accepted.
2/14/2022 1:26 PM
19 Again metal tokens are extremely antiquated and should be removed from the BBB fare
system.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
20 Let people use up what they have 2/14/2022 1:00 PM
21 You didn't accept my tokens when I tried to use them up. What are you talking about?2/14/2022 12:55 PM
22 Stop erecting barriers to public transit use.2/14/2022 12:24 PM
23 if you stop taking them, would someone who has one at least be able to exchange it for a one-
way pass?
2/14/2022 12:08 PM
24 Vide supra. Check that, amazingly idiotic. You sold them with the understanding that they had
value, now you are proposing that you fail to honor your agreement. Again, time for another
raise for Ed King.
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
25 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
26 Continue to accept tokens for as long as they are presented.2/14/2022 10:16 AM
27 Let people use their tokens if they have them for a couple of years more.2/14/2022 10:14 AM
28 Petty. And cheap. Where's your goodwill and kindness toward longtime customers?2/11/2022 3:31 PM
29 Someone paid for those. Very upsetting to not be able to accept them.2/11/2022 2:30 PM
30 Money is money. If they have that in order to pay the fare, that's fair.2/10/2022 5:30 PM
31 Legacy tokens should be respected 2/10/2022 4:09 PM
32 some people still use those 2/10/2022 2:11 PM
33 This is very confusing because they are no longer accepted 2/10/2022 2:02 PM
34 why not just let them be used and then removed.2/10/2022 11:26 AM
35 i thought yo already did that 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1456 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
102 / 175
36 I don’t know about tokens but I feel that it should continue for some time on those tokens 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
37 Some people need to use their tokens, especially when going to and from work or to a place to
play.
2/9/2022 7:52 PM
38 If tokens are available for sale, then sell them. Seniors particularly will appreciate this.2/9/2022 6:21 PM
39 Let the bus drivers answer that one.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
40 I hoard those tokens!2/9/2022 5:11 PM
41 Let the tokens be used!2/9/2022 4:08 PM
42 If they're still in circulation, you should be accepting them. As though people in this city aren't
poor enough already! Using a previously purchased token they had lying around could make
the difference now between whether or not an unemployed person can get to a job interview for
work they desperately need. You sold these, people paid for them, and you took the money.
They weren't supposed to expire. You should therefore be accepting them for as long as people
still have them. Period.
2/9/2022 3:31 PM
43 People should be allowed to exhaust their supply of prepaid tokens.2/9/2022 2:04 PM
44 if BBB tokens are no longer accepted as fare, there should be a way for people to exchange
them for valid fares.
2/9/2022 10:01 AM
45 Why?2/9/2022 7:58 AM
46 Like we said, no more selling Big Blue Bus tokens, just stay with the TAP Card.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
47 I would say don’t stop accepting them abruptly. Begin to phase them out throughout like a six
month or one year period giving people time to become familiar with the contactless payments
2/8/2022 1:58 PM
48 It may reduce complications and ease simplicity.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
49 Allow the rider to finish using the tokens they now have, or allow them to b cashed out 2/8/2022 8:27 AM
50 Simplify process and save cost 2/8/2022 5:59 AM
51 Why stop taking them if they are still in circulation?2/7/2022 11:10 PM
52 I like no contact 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
53 If some token are still in circulation then give customer option to get a Tap Card in exchange.2/7/2022 10:47 PM
54 There needs to be a more equitable and reasonable conversion of discontinued fare products
held by customers. I had a large amount of tokens (700+). There was no expiration date for the
tokens but this policy change has forced me to convert to TAP one fare ride cards with short
expiration dates (the only fare media offered to me in exchange for the tokens that can't be
used). Over 25% expire on 5/1/22 and three other batches have incrementally longer expiration
dates at around 90-day intervals. The longest expiration date is 5/1/23. Today, I do not have an
essential reason to ride the bus every day. In fact, I just became a retired senior and looked
forward to using the tokens more often for leisure as I'm not working out of the area now. But
the exchange of fare product from one with no expiration date (tokens) to 14 months with over
25% expiring by 5/1/22 (one ride TAP cards) is not equitable. To unilaterally impose the short-
term expiration dates will compell me to use the bus multiple times every day to avoid
expiration dates. Taking unnecessary bus rides in the midst of a COVID pandemic just to
recoup value isn't reasonable for an at-risk senior like myself and contrary to one of the main
proposal reasons to protect everyone from infection. It seems this action gives more economic
benefit to the City but I feel there can be a more reasonable balance between the two. If not
modified, this policy change proposal will result in my losing hundreds of dollars in value with
the unused one ride TAP cards.
2/7/2022 10:38 PM
55 If there are some in circulation they should be valid. To remove them from circulation first then
discontinue use would be the better option. Perhaps outreach to collect said tokens and
exchange for new products?
2/7/2022 9:10 PM
56 Currency is currency. This could be all someone has and I don't see who's way any of this is
in.
2/7/2022 9:07 PM
57 Some seniors may not know of the discontinuation and could be caught off guard or low
income families since some facilities still give them out.
2/7/2022 8:17 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1457 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
103 / 175
58 Maybe introduce the BBB Token? a lá crypto?2/7/2022 7:42 PM
59 I use the TAP card on my phone.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
60 Go with the NEW system. Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s
finances.
2/7/2022 2:57 PM
61 Tokens are very passe now 2/7/2022 2:54 PM
62 Tokens can be handed out by community support agencies to riders who otherwise wouldn't
have fare. That way Bbb could receive compensation for riders.
2/7/2022 2:28 PM
63 Doesn't affect me.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
64 No tokens. They should now become collectibles.2/7/2022 1:46 PM
65 Grace period or buying back unused tokens might be best 2/7/2022 1:30 PM
66 Make contactless payment the normal teansaction.2/7/2022 1:00 PM
67 It is not environmentally sustainable to not use something that was already made!2/7/2022 12:41 PM
68 People with tokens should be able to trade them in at the BBB storefronts 2/7/2022 12:34 PM
69 Should have a way to honor that commitment. No expiration was given for tokens.2/7/2022 12:24 PM
70 Allow tokens to be traded for TAP fares 2/7/2022 12:07 PM
71 if you are going to do away with 'change taking machines' in busses, then ok. Otherwise, you
are just messing with people who have tokens. Accept token trade ins, give advance bus
notice with plenty of time.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
72 Seeing that tokens are no longer in production, its inevitable that it will become obsolete for
travel payment overtime. However, it would be reasonable to allow people to use this form of
payment should they still be in possession of said token.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
73 If the tokens are still in circulation, I think they should be accepted as valid fare 2/7/2022 11:57 AM
74 Same comment as above.2/7/2022 11:52 AM
75 Hopefully people can convert these to TAP dollars.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
76 accept them if the rider has no other means of paying 2/7/2022 11:19 AM
77 Buy back tokens or exchange for currently usable fare product.2/7/2022 11:10 AM
78 No need of we are contactless and mag stripe 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
79 These token should be easily available to citizens 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
80 If this policy is going to be removed then there should be a option where people can return their
tokens for a bus pass
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
81 I’ve never seen someone try to pay with these. Perhaps have an alternate option where they
can be used at a machine to pay for TAP cards?
2/7/2022 11:01 AM
82 Okey dokey!2/7/2022 11:01 AM
83 Make it free.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
84 They don’t take them.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
85 If they’re out there, let people use them. You sold them, a product purchased should be used.2/7/2022 10:53 AM
86 Isn’t it illegal to accept payment and then declare the currency void?2/7/2022 10:52 AM
87 For some people, this is like losing money.2/7/2022 10:51 AM
88 Tokens should be able to be exchanged for equivalent bus fare/ride.2/7/2022 10:51 AM
89 Many don’t own mobile devices or up to date smart phones.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
90 Seems unfair, you should be able to use them forever like any currency.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1458 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
104 / 175
91 Except those that exist, and don’t sell any more.2/7/2022 10:48 AM
92 If people still have them, let them use them and remove them from circulation. Otherwise, you
are stealing from people who made a good faith investment.
2/7/2022 10:46 AM
93 The BBB should let people trade in their tokens for tap cards so that those who still have can
at least get a return on their money.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
94 Long time tokens not accepted!2/7/2022 10:43 AM
95 Tokens should be phased out, but there should be a redemption phase for converting tokens
into TAP passes.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
96 You should at least accept tokens if they're still in circulation cuz people bought them already
you've already got the money for that
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
97 Refusing to accept fare via paid-for tokens constitutes theft on the part of the Big Blue Bus
system.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
98 Have a token cash out or exchange policy 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
99 Environment 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
100 Advertise this widely to make sure people are warned!2/7/2022 10:36 AM
101 Same reason for the paper transfers, which I thought I’ve been discontinued a long time ago.2/7/2022 10:33 AM
102 If you do this you should allow people to cash in their tokens somehow so they don't just lose
those rides.
2/7/2022 10:32 AM
103 There should be a clear way for those that still have bus tokens to redeem them.2/7/2022 10:32 AM
104 As long as tap cards can be loaded in many locations, tokens aren't needed.2/7/2022 10:14 AM
105 I think it’s a good idea to allow the use of tokens that people have.2/5/2022 9:35 AM
106 No tokens. Souvenirs only now!2/4/2022 2:41 PM
107 If people paid money for your tokens or paper tickets, you are obligated to continue accepting
them. Nobody was told that these could be randomly refused whenever you feel like it when
they handed over money to purchase these.
2/2/2022 4:27 PM
108 There are so few left in circulation, you might as well just continue accepting them - or at least
give a good deal of warning about it. Possibly offer to trade them in for current passes loaded
on a TAP card?
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
109 There are ten million residents in this county, and there have been millions of visitors a year for
decades now in Los Angeles. A multitude of people are likely to still have unused tokens for a
multitude of valid reasons, and they should be allowed to continue using them, as they
purchased them in good faith, with NO EXPIRATION DATES. You, on the other hand, have no
valid reason to arbitrarily start refusing to accept them; they are your own currency which you
sold to people and pocketed the money; and so what if it was prior to 2018? Greed and
laziness are not valid reasons.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
110 If someone presents a legacy token, just accept it and take it out of circulation. Why refuse to
accept it? That's like a store refusing to accept a valid gift certificate because they've changed
the type of paper it's printed on. It makes no sense to pick that fight with customers, when by
accepting the legacy token or whatever you'll have one less out there. It's a problem that
solves itself given time.
1/31/2022 9:52 PM
111 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE 1/31/2022 12:14 PM
112 If tokens are in circulation they should still be accepted.1/31/2022 12:10 PM
113 Stop tokens, suggest turning in tokens for tap card at big blue bus office.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
114 Same comment as #14: I still have a bunch of tokens. Can I exchange them for a refund in
cash (or credit to my TAP card)?
1/30/2022 1:41 PM
115 I still have some token, would they be able to be exchanged for tap credit?1/30/2022 2:46 AM
116 Seems too outdated to use them....1/28/2022 1:52 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1459 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
105 / 175
117 You already discontinued the use of tokens.1/28/2022 1:13 PM
118 If a decision to no longer accept tokens is made, please give enough time and notice for
people to use them.
1/27/2022 11:35 PM
119 Didn't know you could still use them.1/27/2022 8:17 PM
120 Sure 1/27/2022 5:01 PM
121 Perhaps it’s Time to Move on From Tokens?1/27/2022 4:11 PM
122 I used tokens! I liked them but if they are discontinued, then don’t accept them.1/27/2022 2:18 PM
123 Aww. Bye bye tokens.1/27/2022 2:00 PM
124 Offer redemption plan 1/27/2022 2:00 PM
125 If people still have tokens, they should be allowed to use them up.1/27/2022 1:41 PM
126 Some people may still have tokens that need to be used.1/27/2022 1:17 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1460 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
106 / 175
41.10%284
31.98%221
20.41%141
1.45%10
2.32%16
2.75%19
Q16 Raise the age at which children ride free on Big Blue Bus from "4 and
under” to “5 and under.”
Answered: 691 Skipped: 24
TOTAL 691
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Should be consistent county wide.2/17/2022 8:14 AM
2 It will help families with young children 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 This is great, and will help more kids turn into long time transit users. Hook them while they’re
young!
2/16/2022 9:35 PM
4 Would make a 5 year old feel proud showing 4 year old siblings how to board the bus.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
5 Let the children get used to riding the bus for free to accept it as a normal, valuable means of
commute. Five years is also an easier age to recall.
2/16/2022 2:18 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1461 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
107 / 175
6 4 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
7 21 2/15/2022 7:57 AM
8 Convenience to parents outweighs fare loss to BBB.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
9 Why?....2/14/2022 10:55 PM
10 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
11 revenue 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
12 Makes sense.2/14/2022 4:27 PM
13 Parents would appreciate this.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
14 Again a lot of work, time and effort for nothing. Besides who can tell how old a child is any
more without asking each time AND hopefully they tell the truth.
2/14/2022 3:50 PM
15 Yes, five years old is a much better fare policy because when a child turns six years old, I
think that the caregiver should have to pay the fare of children six years old and above.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
16 All youth should ride for free, period.2/14/2022 12:24 PM
17 i mean...no ones going to check....right?2/14/2022 12:08 PM
18 Allow families to ride for an adventure.2/14/2022 12:07 PM
19 Again, another fake "concession" on the part of the BBB? The drivers never check anyway.
This is yet another throw-away offer made by the BBB to make it appear that they are trying to
serve customer needs. How about running busses when you say they are going to run? That
would truly serve customer needs.
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
20 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
21 Should be more extensive 2/11/2022 11:13 AM
22 4 and under is just fine.2/10/2022 4:09 PM
23 I am in support for raising to 5 and under 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
24 Get children familiar with public transportation 2/9/2022 10:04 PM
25 The additional year for children riding free would be a great idea.2/9/2022 7:52 PM
26 What is this, Disneyland? Keep it 4 and under ride for free.2/9/2022 6:21 PM
27 Maybe 6 and under. 7 year olds are more aware but also can be so physically active that they
may do foolish things crossing without crossing guards.
2/9/2022 5:47 PM
28 In my opinion It should be up to 13 years old 2/9/2022 5:45 PM
29 Reducing the price of public transportation is always good.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
30 I would prefer to allow free rides based on height instead of age, because height correlates
better with how much space the child would take up on the bus.
2/9/2022 4:48 PM
31 Helpful to some parents 2/9/2022 4:08 PM
32 I support expanding access to public transit 2/9/2022 10:01 AM
33 I like that suggestion above.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
34 More ridership 2/8/2022 1:58 PM
35 Children accompanied by a parent should ride free regardless of age. This also speeds up
boarding.
2/8/2022 1:51 PM
36 People will be more likely to use these services with young children such as taking them to the
park.
2/8/2022 10:49 AM
37 Good idea 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
38 They're still the future when they're 5.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1462 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
108 / 175
39 I don't travel with children.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
40 Good for kids.2/7/2022 2:57 PM
41 Too big to sit on a lap and take a seat away from a full fare rider.2/7/2022 2:28 PM
42 My daughter might like this, she has two girls under five and goes to Santa Monica frequently.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
43 Make it 6 y/o to coincide with entering school, where they will ride for free anyway.2/7/2022 1:46 PM
44 I say 10 2/7/2022 12:43 PM
45 Less hassle 2/7/2022 12:37 PM
46 Again, easier to remember and simpler, also may help lower income riders.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
47 Parents of children who are not of elementary school age, should not pay fair to transport
minors under the school age range.
2/7/2022 12:03 PM
48 These children are occupying space (seats) without paying fare during rush hours. Adults
specially working adults are already tired, let them have the seat that these children are
occupying without paying a single cent.
2/7/2022 11:43 AM
49 All youth rides should be free.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
50 How about a student fare for ALL students elementary through high school 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
51 Good thinking.2/7/2022 11:01 AM
52 And 5 and over, too.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
53 Why not 8?2/7/2022 10:53 AM
54 Makes no sense.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
55 Raise to 12 and under 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
56 Five year olds are large these days!2/7/2022 10:46 AM
57 Could be older. What age do they not need accompaniment 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
58 Raise even higher, 5 is too low 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
59 Young children with guardians should ride for free.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
60 I can't see how you can tell the difference I think she'd just leave it at 5 or change it to 5 and 4
is a silly number to begin with
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
61 Make children pay. No free rides 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
62 5 years old is still a child 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
63 I’d go even higher 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
64 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
65 A 5 year old can sit on a parent's lap if taking up a seat is a issue.2/7/2022 10:14 AM
66 Yes, 5 is a better cutoff age 2/4/2022 2:41 PM
67 As far as I know, Metro also sets the age at 5.2/2/2022 9:23 PM
68 Would help out parents who can't leave a child behind 2/2/2022 2:59 PM
69 THere's so little difference between a 5 and 4 year-old, and a lot of 5 year-olds aren't in school
yet anyways, so might as well let them pass.
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
70 Encourages people to use public transit 1/31/2022 9:52 PM
71 Kids who can't stay home alone safely because they're too young should ride for free, not sure
what that age is.
1/31/2022 12:25 PM
72 Yes. Child with adult, free, have 5ft height tape by front door. :):)1/30/2022 9:24 PM
73 Haven't seen any driver ask a child's age.1/28/2022 2:08 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1463 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
109 / 175
74 I heard Metro found a similar issue with children just under school age having to pay full fare,
and this matches their solution to that problem.
1/27/2022 11:35 PM
75 Helping parents access public transportation is always great 1/27/2022 5:38 PM
76 Let’s get little kids to like riding the bus!1/27/2022 2:18 PM
77 This makes sense to me because it aligns with the policy at other operators.1/27/2022 2:00 PM
78 Other bus lines have a 5 and under age limit, so it would better align BBB w/ the other
agencies.
1/27/2022 1:17 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1464 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
110 / 175
55.60%387
27.73%193
9.77%68
1.44%10
0.43%3
5.03%35
Q17 Accept the Regular Metro 1-Day Pass as a valid fare payment on Big
Blue Bus.
Answered: 696 Skipped: 19
TOTAL 696
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Better serves the people.2/17/2022 2:01 PM
2 If BBB is discontinuing their own day pass this would be an acceptable substitute. However it
will cause confusion as other Metro passes like the 7 day and 30 day Metro only pass would
not be accepted.
2/17/2022 8:14 AM
3 Many times it will be a good idea to have that kind of pass 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
4 This is an amazing idea! Interconnectivity is crucial 2/16/2022 9:35 PM
5 Yes it's a courtesy to the other agency and convince for the riders 2/16/2022 3:23 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1465 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
111 / 175
6 Ease of commuting that meets climate goals.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
7 This will save some people money. I know people that use metro and its annoying for them
that when they get to santa monica they can't use many bus routes here with their metro
passes and have to pay more for the blue buses.
2/15/2022 2:52 PM
8 Sure why not 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
9 In all honesty, all Metro fare should be used for Big Blue, but this is just my opinion, I guess.
Plenty of us travel between Metro and Big Blue all the time, and it would be so much easier if
these teams combined to make our travels that much easier.
2/15/2022 9:24 AM
10 Much better for visitors to the region. Don’t know how BBB would recover fares.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
11 If you can work out a fare share with Metro, this would be really positive to promoting viable
regional public transit in support of first mile/last mile.
2/14/2022 10:55 PM
12 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
13 all fares throughout cities should have same fare 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
14 Anything that integrates fares with Metro is positive. This makes riding more seamless and
eliminates confusion for the many tourists in our area that have little or no knowledge of the
various transit providers and differing fare products. I see these types of issues on the bus all
the time. Tourists will get on a Big Blue Bus and be confused about whether it's a Metro bus
since there is overlapping service in some areas.
2/14/2022 5:09 PM
15 Makes sense because one often has to transfer when Metro buses don't go to west side,
especially common at night. (Bad enough having to wait for another bus, and the risk of it at
night. Shouldn't have to pay another fare to keep going in a straight line!) And certainly would
make sense for tourists and visitors, and people who often don't ride buses. Would also save
time for drivers who have to explain to people unfamiliar with L.A./Santa Monica geography
that they have to pay another fare. I've often seen where people didn't get a transfer from a
Metro bus because they didn't realize the bus didn't go into the west side at night, even though
it did during the day.
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
16 Seems like the reasonable thing to do.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
17 Metro doesn’t honor BBB so shouldn’t be one-way.2/14/2022 4:00 PM
18 One card "TAP"2/14/2022 3:50 PM
19 Less hassle, jsut ease of transit 2/14/2022 3:23 PM
20 Reduce confusion with just one form of 1-day pass instead of two.2/14/2022 2:12 PM
21 Only if BBB continues to accept their own single day pass, otherwise, that wouldn't be fair to
passengers that solely use BBB.
2/14/2022 1:26 PM
22 I definitely think that accepting Metro 1-day passes on the BBB is an excellent idea because it
would enable Metro customers and BBB customers an option for a 1-day pass.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
23 Everything's now on the one card, anyway. Unless you plan to join with the SANTAG Pronto
card?
2/14/2022 12:55 PM
24 About time for some cross-agency cooperation.2/14/2022 12:24 PM
25 This would increase ridership on public transit across Santa Monica and LA 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
26 Why not just implement TAP vendors within Big Blue Bus stops?2/14/2022 12:05 PM
27 Most ppl ride more than 1 company 2/14/2022 10:51 AM
28 How can one answer that question without knowing the nature of the financial agreement
between BBB and Metro?
2/14/2022 10:31 AM
29 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
30 Makes thing so much easier 2/14/2022 10:14 AM
31 would be nice if the various bus companies were coordinated, for example BBB card can be
used on Metro
2/11/2022 7:43 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1466 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
112 / 175
32 This is super overdue as well!! Really excited to see it move through.2/10/2022 9:01 PM
33 Obviously this question answers itself. Of course 2/10/2022 8:59 PM
34 As mentioned above, sometimes one destination requires multiple changes of transportation -
would be good to only pay once per trip instead of once per ride
2/10/2022 6:42 PM
35 I repeat. Money is money. I guarantee you most of the people who work in Santa Monica take
the train o the metro before they use a BBB.
2/10/2022 5:30 PM
36 And vis versa, Metro needs to accept transfers from BBB so I don't pay 4 different fares just
to get to the valley.
2/10/2022 4:09 PM
37 Yes!2/10/2022 2:02 PM
38 sometimes needed if pass value is down. for emergency use only. to provide fare to get to
place that can update amt. on pass card
2/10/2022 11:26 AM
39 I am strongly in favor of using Metro passes on the Big Blue Bus 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
40 I know that some bus agencies which serve stops to connect to certain agencies accept
passes from the connecting agencies, so for everyone, that would work.
2/9/2022 7:52 PM
41 I don’t understand that one.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
42 Yes!2/9/2022 5:11 PM
43 Convenience! Ease!! Make it easier for the person, whether a local or a visitor!2/9/2022 4:08 PM
44 This would make better sense for patrons who ride both Metro #30 and Santa Monica Transit
#7.
2/8/2022 8:08 PM
45 I also like that suggestion above.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
46 An integrated transit payment system makes it easier for riders to manage fares and easier to
transfer resulting in more ridership
2/8/2022 1:58 PM
47 It will make it easier to transfer and use both services to arrive at a destination.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
48 Inter agency fares is always good. Makes things a lot less confusing.2/8/2022 8:27 AM
49 Very good idea 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
50 This seems fair as Metro and BBB charge high prices.2/7/2022 10:47 PM
51 I ride the train and see others who do too so this sounds like it would be more convenient for
sure
2/7/2022 9:58 PM
52 YES. Metro has limited their routes on the westside and thus pushing more users onto BBB.
This could help people who not only have to wait for more buses but now need more fare for
the transfers.
2/7/2022 9:10 PM
53 The easier it is to transfer, the better 2/7/2022 9:07 PM
54 Saves money for customers and makes it more efficient for the public 2/7/2022 8:17 PM
55 "I didn't know I couldn't use this!" was never heard again.2/7/2022 7:42 PM
56 I don't purchase the Regular Metro 1-Day Pass.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
57 A lot of riders do hop from metro to BBB, this is only a convenience to riders instead of adding
confusion to them which will then be transferred to questions to drivers who aren’t always in
the best of moods.
2/7/2022 5:14 PM
58 transport continuity 2/7/2022 3:41 PM
59 Yes, it's good to save between metro and BBQ, I'm more apt to ride than take uber 2/7/2022 2:54 PM
60 Many riders are transferring. Day pass riders tend to not be regular bus riders and get confused
with payment
2/7/2022 2:28 PM
61 What about accepting Metro 30 day passes?2/7/2022 1:54 PM
62 Hopefully metro will also get ride of all these different passes as well.2/7/2022 1:46 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1467 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
113 / 175
63 All metro passes should be accepted 2/7/2022 1:10 PM
64 Many riders transfer from LA Metro Transportation.2/7/2022 1:00 PM
65 Less hassle 2/7/2022 12:37 PM
66 Seems a kindness 2/7/2022 12:34 PM
67 Love any alignment with larger metro system 2/7/2022 12:24 PM
68 Improve means of transportation across areas of LA 2/7/2022 12:07 PM
69 increases intermobile ease, but it should work both ways.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
70 Yes, passes should be interchangeable between MTA and BBB.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
71 Eases the burden of those who go out just doing groceries, appointments.2/7/2022 11:43 AM
72 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
73 Will BBB get a slice of revenue? If not then no.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
74 This would be fantastic! It cuts down on having to purchase both day passes from 2 different
organizations.
2/7/2022 11:32 AM
75 I think this is a good idea, if you could collab with all transport to the public to offer one low
cost fare that would grant access to ride all public transportation types on a daily and monthly
rate. That would allow people to work and commute or go to school with ease and affordability.
2/7/2022 11:23 AM
76 Both use tap so it would make it easier for people who travel between both 2/7/2022 11:17 AM
77 This makes all the sense as the current scheme is confusing to customers 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
78 Many who ride BBB tend to come from Downtown LA for reasons such as work or leisure. It
would be much easier if their Day Pass would also apply to the rest of their trip.
2/7/2022 11:02 AM
79 U must mean the preexisting pass?2/7/2022 11:01 AM
80 Need I repeat myself?2/7/2022 10:59 AM
81 Again bad transit system in Los Angeles.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
82 Yes, please. Its great to have multiple/competing bus systems. Not so great when you're stuck
relying on multiple systems because they agreed to split turf. Try riding down Pico. Nope!
Gotta change to Metro; the 7 diverts up Crenshaw? I can afford any of it, but that means I also
afforded to abandon it. Those more dependent on bus service shouldn't be punished for their
geography.
2/7/2022 10:58 AM
83 Would help tourists and work commuters 2/7/2022 10:57 AM
84 Should’ve been doing this for years 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
85 They should be intertwined more.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
86 Please, i need to transfer systems regularly and get hit twice. It sucks.2/7/2022 10:48 AM
87 Definitely! Much easier to get around LA 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
88 Because many people commute using metro and bbb 2/7/2022 10:47 AM
89 Simplifies transfer and will help tourists.2/7/2022 10:45 AM
90 Anything to simplify 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
91 This is very important for making public transportation more accessible and affordable to all.
More transit systems uniting to share free transfers is especially important when certain areas
are better served by certain transit providers
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
92 Would be fantastic. I ride a metro bus and then BBB. The transfer fee is fine for right now
($0.55) but when fares return to normal in July I will be paying $9 every day for fare between
the buses. I ride twice a day for 5 days a week, which maths out to $180 a month—not to
mention the buses i take on weekends for errands. Too much for my pocketbook to handle.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1468 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
114 / 175
93 There are three different systems to navigate in west LA (Culver City is the third) and it would
be great to see a unification of their passes.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
94 I think this will streamline things and increase ridership.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
95 This is a good idea, but there would have to be some deal with Metro.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
96 No I would just keep things separate so people would know that the Metro is Metro I mean
none of the big blue drivers know anything about the Metro schedule so to ask them to
manage their paperwork seems unfair in the moment
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
97 This should also permits Metro monthly TAP card pass as well, particularly for those of us who
use the Big Blue Bus only occasionally, when we have to go into that area.
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
98 Need bbb payment 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
99 We should be encouraging people to use mass transit all over LA county.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
100 About time 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
101 Reciprocal deal needed with metro 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
102 It should have already been this way.2/7/2022 10:33 AM
103 Helping the community save money is always a good thing.2/7/2022 10:14 AM
104 Simplifies the process 2/5/2022 9:35 AM
105 Yes, transfers between bus lines is always a big headache!2/4/2022 2:41 PM
106 Honestly this would be wonderful.2/1/2022 4:53 PM
107 Encourages people to use public transit 1/31/2022 9:52 PM
108 So great for transit integration and ease of use by visitors 1/31/2022 10:54 AM
109 Yes, metro or BBB, nice accommodation, great when able to get on any bus going in the
direction you need to go in Santa Monica.
1/30/2022 9:24 PM
110 It is not the passenger's fault that there are 2 different transit systems with 2 different fare
structures.
1/30/2022 12:38 PM
111 Just allow all Metro fare media on BBB buses 1/28/2022 7:45 PM
112 This is an interesting idea! This would allow for a more seamless system, as buses and rail
should function together so that passengers can choose the most efficient route. I understand
that Metro may not honor the lower priced Big Blue Bus 1-Day pass, but it would still be a good
thing to keep that option available too, as long as it is stated that it is only good for Big Blue
Bus.
1/27/2022 11:35 PM
113 Again, this would allow riders to use public transportation as a network of routes and would be
helpful making the city more accessible without relying on individual car ownership
1/27/2022 5:38 PM
114 If you’re eliminating the BBB day pass, then why are you even considering accepting a day
pass from a different agency? Please stay away from Metro as much as possible. I’m almost
positive Metro won’t ever consider a BBB pass as valid fare on Metro. Just don’t do it, please.
1/27/2022 5:01 PM
115 Yes, no brainer. Keep it simple and encourage ridership.1/27/2022 4:54 PM
116 It will be easier for travelers and tourists 1/27/2022 4:53 PM
117 Allows For connections To Metro’s System.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
118 This would definitely be a helpful step along corridors such as Santa Monica Blvd and Wilshire
Blvd where BBB and LA Metro services parallel one another.
1/27/2022 2:39 PM
119 Gives the option to grab metro bus going to same stop saving time for rider.1/27/2022 2:19 PM
120 Please keep interoperability with metro 1/27/2022 2:18 PM
121 Often people coming to work in SM come from areas that are metro run.1/27/2022 2:02 PM
122 Yes, yes, yes. Makes the system easier to navigate if you're a tourist to LA determined to use 1/27/2022 2:00 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1469 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
115 / 175
transit.
123 Since Big Blue Bus overlaps so much with Metro, I think this will be a positive impact so
passengers can board whichever bus arrives first to get to their destination or transfer point.
1/27/2022 9:19 AM
124 This could be helpful for transfers under certain conditions.1/27/2022 8:48 AM
125 There’s a lot of discrepancy with this and it would circumvent a lot of multi-modal transfers
from rail to muni so this is a great idea.
1/27/2022 8:16 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1470 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
116 / 175
54.43%375
27.87%192
11.47%79
1.60%11
0.29%2
4.35%30
Q18 Accept the Senior/Disabled/Medicare Metro 1-Day Pass as a valid
fare payment on Big Blue Bus.
Answered: 689 Skipped: 26
TOTAL 689
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 If BBB is discontinuing their own day pass this would be an acceptable substitute. However it
will cause confusion as other Metro passes like the 7 day and 30 day Metro only pass would
not be accepted.
2/17/2022 8:14 AM
2 It will help the seniors 2/17/2022 8:03 AM
3 This is an amazing idea! Interconnectivity is crucial!2/16/2022 9:35 PM
4 See comments on question 17 above.2/16/2022 3:23 PM
5 Ease of commuting that meets climate goals.2/16/2022 2:18 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Very positive
Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative
Impact
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Very positive Impact
Positive Impact
Neutral
Negative Impact
Very negative Impact
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1471 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
117 / 175
6 Sue why not 2/15/2022 1:07 PM
7 The Senior/Disabled/Medicare passes should be accepted on all forms of public transportation.
It must be very difficult for some to be able to remember all of these different passes.
2/15/2022 9:24 AM
8 Same as 17.2/15/2022 5:07 AM
9 See above 2/14/2022 10:55 PM
10 agree 2/14/2022 5:43 PM
11 simplify fares 2/14/2022 5:37 PM
12 Same as above.2/14/2022 5:09 PM
13 Same as question #17 - even more so for seniors/disabled, for who having to change buses
just to get from other areas into the west side.
2/14/2022 4:27 PM
14 For the senior who needs something for a day.2/14/2022 4:07 PM
15 Simple.2/14/2022 3:50 PM
16 Absolutely!2/14/2022 3:23 PM
17 I definitely think that by the BBB accepting the Metro 1-day bus pass for seniors and people
with disabilities is a great idea because it sets up another fare option for bus customers who
first ride the Metro bus to have a 1-day fare opportunity for seniors and people with disabilities.
2/14/2022 1:13 PM
18 Nothing I can personally comment on.2/14/2022 12:55 PM
19 Most ppl ride more than 1 company 2/14/2022 10:51 AM
20 Vide supra.2/14/2022 10:31 AM
21 N/C 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
22 Makes things so much easier 2/14/2022 10:14 AM
23 Same as above 2/10/2022 6:42 PM
24 Same. How many bus systems does this town have, anyway...2/10/2022 4:09 PM
25 Yes!2/10/2022 2:02 PM
26 seniors need this for emergencies when card/pass runs out and they are enroute to medical
appts.
2/10/2022 11:26 AM
27 great for errands 2/10/2022 8:45 AM
28 I am strongly in favor of using Metro passes on the Big Blue Bus 2/10/2022 3:20 AM
29 With the agencies that connect to other agencies, especially for older people who come from
out of town, that is a good idea.
2/9/2022 7:52 PM
30 They need it.2/9/2022 5:47 PM
31 Yes, please.2/9/2022 5:11 PM
32 As above 2/9/2022 4:08 PM
33 This would make better sense for patrons who ride both Metro #30 and Santa Monica Transit
#7.
2/8/2022 8:08 PM
34 I like that other suggestion above, because that could save me some money.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
35 An integrated transit payment system makes it easier for riders to manage fares and easier to
transfer resulting in more ridership
2/8/2022 1:58 PM
36 Same with this group.2/8/2022 10:49 AM
37 Inter agency as noted above 2/8/2022 8:27 AM
38 Is ok 2/7/2022 11:09 PM
39 This seems fair as Metro and BBB charge high prices 2/7/2022 10:47 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1472 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
118 / 175
40 See above.2/7/2022 9:10 PM
41 The easier to transfer the better.2/7/2022 9:07 PM
42 "Can I use this?" was heard again, but now the answer was "Yes."2/7/2022 7:42 PM
43 I don't typically purchase the Senior Metro 1-Day Pass.2/7/2022 6:51 PM
44 I wish MTA ran as well as you do 2/7/2022 2:54 PM
45 See my previous comment.2/7/2022 1:54 PM
46 Hopefully this pass will be gone across the board 2/7/2022 1:46 PM
47 Transfer fees from metro to BBB seem unreasonable when other bus lines in LA don’t have the
transfer fee. I know it’s only a few cents, but that adds up when I commute every day
2/7/2022 1:11 PM
48 Many riders regularly transfer from LA Metro Transportation.2/7/2022 1:00 PM
49 Same as above.2/7/2022 12:34 PM
50 See 17 above.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
51 Yes, passes should be interchangeable between MTA and BBB.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
52 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
53 Will BBB get a slice of revenue? If not then no.2/7/2022 11:35 AM
54 Economics of LA are crushing for fixed and lower income seniors.2/7/2022 11:10 AM
55 Post as to where to get these passes & make the places easily available to citizens 2/7/2022 11:04 AM
56 Do U mean the preexisting pass? Clarity?!2/7/2022 11:01 AM
57 Make it free.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
58 LET THEM RIDE FREE 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
59 Same as above.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
60 I would just say get on the bus today in a point like that because keep the bus 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
61 Need bbb payment 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
62 We should be encouraging people to use mass transit all over LA county.2/7/2022 10:38 AM
63 Reciprocity neede with metro 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
64 Yes, again, transferability is important!2/4/2022 2:41 PM
65 Same as above. Having to deal with transfers is annoying, but if you don't use other agencies
enough for an EZ pass, it's your only option. THis would help a lot.
2/1/2022 4:53 PM
66 Encourages people to use public transit 1/31/2022 9:52 PM
67 Yes, thank you.1/30/2022 9:24 PM
68 It is not the passenger's fault that there are 2 different bus systems with 2 different fare
structures.
1/30/2022 12:38 PM
69 Just accept all metro passes 1/28/2022 7:45 PM
70 Same comment as for full fare.1/27/2022 11:35 PM
71 Same as regular riders, just avoid Metro at all cost please 1/27/2022 5:01 PM
72 Allows For connections To Metro’s System.1/27/2022 4:11 PM
73 This would definitely be a helpful step along corridors such as Santa Monica Blvd and Wilshire
Blvd where BBB and LA Metro services parallel one another.
1/27/2022 2:39 PM
74 Please keep interoperability with metro 1/27/2022 2:18 PM
75 Off topic: Save fuel by not running air conditioning unless absolutely necessary. Add “stops”1/27/2022 1:29 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1473 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
119 / 175
not take them away. Seat at EVERY stop. Remind drivers to not be unpleasant to riders.
76 Mildly positive effect, if it improves transfer processes from Metro to BBB 1/27/2022 8:48 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1474 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
120 / 175
56.70%381
23.07%155
12.35%83
0.89%6
2.68%18
4.32%29
Q19 A program to identify and address the transit fare needs of vulnerable
populations (e.g., seniors, disabled, those without bank accounts or
credit/debit cards, economically disadvantaged).
Answered: 672 Skipped: 43
TOTAL 672
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Might be too intrusive in terms of private information required to participate. Let people pay
with coin of the realm and this realm is the United States of America so use US dollars &
cents.
2/17/2022 2:05 PM
2 Some riders are in that situation 2/17/2022 8:06 AM
3 My uncle didn't believe in bank accounts and wasn't sure about tap card usage and the like.2/16/2022 3:30 PM
4 Everyone should be valued as part of our commuting community.2/16/2022 2:20 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Extremely
important
Very important
Somewhat
important
Not so
important
Not at all
important
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Extremely important
Very important
Somewhat important
Not so important
Not at all important
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1475 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
121 / 175
5 That would be good, if you really end up helping people. Some of our friends and family that
are poor and ride the bus coulda used some help the last year or 2. I think you shouldve done
a program for looking into all the needs of these people about riding the bus before you decided
to have your drivers just refuse cash all of a sudden and cause so many problems for people.
2/15/2022 8:12 PM
6 Getting everyone paying something would be a big step forward.2/15/2022 5:47 PM
7 Our vulnerable populations should always be placed first when it comes to ridership. This is
one of the reasons why I'm not sure that making every form of payment contactless will work
just yet. Some people don't have the know-how to be able to use some of the forms of
technology, and this will make ridership a bit more difficult for some. There are those who rely
on money (change) to be able to ride public transportation, and the other means may not be as
simple as it sounds to everyone else. Even if you decide to go contactless, this needs to be
more of a transition and not just an overnight change that will confuse people.
2/15/2022 9:36 AM
8 It’s simply the right thing to do.2/15/2022 5:09 AM
9 How much will this cost? It makes sense to partner with Metro on this and review regionally,
rather than BBB specific.
2/14/2022 10:56 PM
10 because I ride big blue bus as a senior I depend on the bus.2/14/2022 5:44 PM
11 I's a senior on a fixed budget. Every small bit counts since I am completely dependent on BBB
services.
2/14/2022 4:10 PM
12 Important to help people obtain noncash methods of payment, but don’t allow cash.2/14/2022 4:04 PM
13 I mean, if you cared about "the transit fare needs of vulnerable populations" you wouldn't have
so many bus drivers acting mean or picking fights with people who have no fare or only cash
fare. And you wouldn't be trying to cancel paper passes and tokens that people bought before.
This kinda just sounds like lip service, to pretend to be investigating the needs of the
disadvantaged people as an excuse for why it's okay for you to be doing these things that
really hurt the disadvantaged.
2/14/2022 2:56 PM
14 These are the populations that use and rely on public transportation the most and can't afford
cars.
2/14/2022 1:29 PM
15 I think that by having a program to help people in the above stated groups is extremely
important because how do the seniors, people with disabilities, financially disadvantaged
people: because it’s important to create a transportation system that is equal for all of the
members of society today.
2/14/2022 1:28 PM
16 Start with not getting rid of cash fares.2/14/2022 12:27 PM
17 Keep cash fares so don't need to address all these issues.2/14/2022 11:53 AM
18 I am legally blind and so do not drive; but I am well able to afford what I need. Many people
disabled or elderly are not so lucky and I believe we must always include and care for them.
2/14/2022 11:14 AM
19 Ppl wanna pay but not convient 2/14/2022 10:52 AM
20 N/C 2/14/2022 10:31 AM
21 The seniors and disabled are often on very fixed incomes...we should make fares very low for
them.
2/14/2022 10:19 AM
22 good idea 2/12/2022 4:27 PM
23 It's sad that you decided to run this pilot program with its many awful changes without first
doing such a study about the fare needs of these vulnerable populations. This was really
irresponsible of your agency. What's really the point of running such a program now after
you've already caused so many difficulties in these people's lives and driven some of them
away from your bus agency?
2/11/2022 3:42 PM
24 I submitted an application to LIFE almost a year ago and never heard back. Multiple people I
know have had the same experience. Considering that the majority of LA metro riders (and one
can assume, BBB riders) are low-income, having a more comprehensive reduced fare program
for marginalized and vulnerable people is pretty vital, and the current one is somewhat….
dysfunctional? bad? not working its best, anyway
2/10/2022 9:04 PM
25 Humanity 2/10/2022 9:00 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1476 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
122 / 175
26 I'm 68 years old, on a fixed income, and have to take the bus to do grocery shopping and
laundry, not to mention, everything else I do, because I don't drive. The bus is my door to the
world.
2/10/2022 4:14 PM
27 Yes!2/10/2022 2:03 PM
28 seniors need help. they need one fare to get from Point A to Point B when it takes 3 or more
bus changes.
2/10/2022 11:30 AM
29 Yes they really need help to meet their needs of the mobility 2/10/2022 3:22 AM
30 A program to address the qualifications for eligibility for a reduced fare for vulnerable
populations is a good thing.
2/9/2022 7:55 PM
31 It sounds good but confusing. A program where? In person?- online? available how? I’m a
senior who doesn’t understand the internet! Life goes so fast, it’s hard to know how how to
take care of things without driving and not paying a fortuitous park . The bus is great and
affordable now. (at $.50) a ride.
2/9/2022 5:56 PM
32 The bus should be for all. No one should be made to feel unwelcome. I can't stand the thought
of an elderly or homeless person waiting for the bus and being denied a ride due to having
cash. It's heartbreaking. It bothers me more than the person who has no cash being denied a
ride, although they should ride too.
2/9/2022 4:42 PM
33 And hopefully cash will be , yes, will be accepted once again! Consider the vulnerable
population plus the visitors and tourists.
2/9/2022 4:21 PM
34 They need lower fares. It's not complicated. Just lower fares, or let them ride for free. When
places make these sorts of new "programs" to "investigate" things, they just waste a ton of
money on running the programs, with little to no useful results. Often because the answers
were super obvious from the beginning. And the money could have been put to good use
instead. Like to lower fares.
2/9/2022 3:50 PM
35 Also, I would hate for credit/debit card theft be an issue for a senior or disabled person. Is
there a place where anyone could get personalized help to load a tap card from their
credit/debit card / online?
2/9/2022 2:13 PM
36 This is essential if BBB wants to move forward with this proposal 2/9/2022 12:21 PM
37 If you want more riders and paying.2/9/2022 8:02 AM
38 None whatsoever.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
39 Knowing the problems that come with contactless payment is crucial to getting people on to
the system and assist them in anyway possible to make this a much easier transition. It also
helps in knowing which communities or areas need more assistance than others and use
public transit more than others
2/8/2022 2:07 PM
40 This is the segment of the population that depends on Public Transit for their transportation
needs, and has mostly no other options.
2/8/2022 12:36 PM
41 If the city can support those most in need, these riders would be less likely to try cheating on
paying their fare. Instead, they will have options to fit their needs.
2/8/2022 10:52 AM
42 Those are the people using the bus the most. Their needs must be assessed to inform the
best policies.
2/8/2022 12:36 AM
43 I like service the big blue bus I use every day 2/7/2022 11:12 PM
44 I don't understand how people without a bank account or credit card are included with seniors
or economically disadvantaged. This is why allowing people to pay cash is still important.
2/7/2022 10:52 PM
45 The outreach is the most important component; they can't use a program they don't know
about.
2/7/2022 9:14 PM
46 It's getting harder and harder and I wondered how difficult it would be for people who don't really
have any money or a home, to get around when you stopped accepting change or cash. Many
people have been stranded on the Westside, I'm sure.
2/7/2022 9:10 PM
47 Public transit is for the public.2/7/2022 7:43 PM
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48 The bus is the the transit system for the poor and desperate. Quite to opposite. The bus
should be made attractive to people who normally drive
2/7/2022 6:53 PM
49 I'm a senior.2/7/2022 6:52 PM
50 Could you please prioritize the average rider rather than some other damn population 2/7/2022 5:10 PM
51 Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s finances. Lost jobs, can t pay
rent...etc
2/7/2022 2:59 PM
52 I work. Paying 4 bus fares every time I work is a lot of oatmeal.2/7/2022 2:33 PM
53 With the cost of living going up and salaries remaining the same, this is extremely important.2/7/2022 2:11 PM
54 Low income people should ride for free period.2/7/2022 1:53 PM
55 If you made your bus fareless, you wouldn’t have to create complicated expensive initiatives
and programs.
2/7/2022 1:22 PM
56 Some people don’t have bank accounts. As well as have an account but don’t make enough to
have enough for public transportation on a regular bases.
2/7/2022 1:05 PM
57 Right now we’re lost in the system 2/7/2022 12:43 PM
58 It's BBB's responsibility to serve all citizens and treat them equally 2/7/2022 12:38 PM
59 Some elderly are carrying loads of stuff that consumes 2 seats instead of just for one.2/7/2022 11:46 AM
60 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
61 You already have a program that will allow for subsidy - probably have to figure out how to
make it easier to apply and less in price
2/7/2022 11:25 AM
62 Am a mom- grandma & a concerned citizen- I would suggest connecting this campaign to a
unity theme. We must all raise our conciousness about being the global family. Our culture
should be inspired on every level to be glad we are able to have service for all. That is about
civil service & community.
2/7/2022 11:08 AM
63 Do we need a program for this? Or could we just rely on drivers to give "courtesy fares"?2/7/2022 11:04 AM
64 Now we’re talkin 2/7/2022 10:59 AM
65 Please don’t. Poor people don’t want to be added to another database 2/7/2022 10:55 AM
66 In non pandemic times I depend on the bbb system and use it almost daily.2/7/2022 10:51 AM
67 Yes yes yes!!! The ultimate goal is free public transit for all in a car-dominated city which
would alleviate a lot of environmental/physical problems as well
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
68 There is no reason why a person like the homeless should be told to get off the bus because
they can’t afford it. Also the BBB has to find it easier for older people to get to hard to teach
places like the post office in Santa Monica. Ironically the BBB drivers take their breaks across
the street from the post office but no bus directly goes there. So people have to walk a few
blocks from the Expo stop or walk from 4th ! In Summer this can be a big problem for elderly
people!
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
69 Unsure what this means. I dont mind increasing access to people listed above, but I worry
about requiring people to show identification listing the reason for their reduced fares. That
feels like more of a barrier than a way to increase access.
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
70 first make it easier to find and purchase fares!2/7/2022 10:47 AM
71 Very pleased to hear this.2/7/2022 10:46 AM
72 Transit is so important to me, and making sure that it’s accessible for all is the my first priority.
Busses should be a place for everyone to be together, to learn how to care for one another.
That can only happen if everyone is present!
2/7/2022 10:44 AM
73 See above comments.2/7/2022 10:42 AM
74 It's unfair to group these people together, they're not to be treated equally, bad question...2/7/2022 10:40 AM
75 these are the ones mist impacted by contactless payment 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
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124 / 175
76 If you let the communities that you purport to serve play an active role in determining the
policies
2/7/2022 10:39 AM
77 go to no cost rides 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
78 Especially with trying to move cashless. Public Transit is important to so many people that do
not have access to internet or bank accounts.
2/7/2022 10:37 AM
79 As long as it’s economically sound, may be a quota system?2/7/2022 10:34 AM
80 Tap card and digital only is a challenge for these populations 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
81 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
82 Anything designed to improve the lives of disadvantaged people is always a good idea.2/5/2022 9:39 AM
83 Wouldn’t it be viable to identify non account holders through their checking in/identifying
themselves at a social services agency, shelter, etc? They would be issued a card there
periodically already loaded ?
2/4/2022 2:49 PM
84 This program is important but it's clear that the BBB does not care about vulnerable
populations. Banning cash payments hurts the most vulnerable groups the most. This is widely
known and acknowledged, even by the BBB. And yet the organization is trying to permanently
ban cash fares.
2/3/2022 7:43 AM
85 These groups may not have other transit options.2/2/2022 9:39 PM
86 Simplify the process for those involved 2/2/2022 3:00 PM
87 Santa Monica needs to do this. I was born and raised in Santa Monica, lived there some as an
adult, and I honestly hate what Santa Monica has become. The city needs to make a better
effort.
2/1/2022 4:55 PM
88 I think it’s a good idea for those persons however I also fear a surge in the homeless
population within the bus which is not a problem I ever had with BBB but forces me to avoid
taking metro.
2/1/2022 7:33 AM
89 You are literally deciding to make multiple changes which will make life harder for all of these
vulnerable populations. This question comes off as very disingenuous.
1/31/2022 10:00 PM
90 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
91 It is very important for this demographic to be able to have as much mobility as possible, if for
no other reason than to get groceries, get to doctor's appts. and service agency appts. and just
do not have the money to spend on transportation.
1/31/2022 8:48 AM
92 Many programs in place already. Giving tap card and address of office helpful.1/30/2022 9:34 PM
93 You have population members from every type of vulnerable population living in your service
area. Many of these persons are homeless persons.
1/30/2022 12:40 PM
94 Most of your programs disadvantage all these groups and really everyone. I am in favor of
taking the bus for everyone but your program of not allowing cash payments, or even credit
card payments on the bus leaves many people without transportation. Those who need it most
can no longer take the bus. Most transit and other agencies have decided that EVERYONE
has a cell phone and apple pay and is able to get to and find the place to buy passes. This is
not true,. The bus should be available to all and you should be encouraging ridership not
making it difficult to ride the bus. I happen to have a tap card as I am a senior and use metro
etc frequently but if I have a visitor they cannot take any transportation any more and have to
clog up the roads and the air with pollution by renting a car or walking. Ridiculous.
1/28/2022 11:02 AM
95 Well, it is important to identify and address the needs of all of your riders, and potential riders.
But I believe keeping the option to pay with cash would benefit especially benefit the listed
vulnerable populations.
1/27/2022 11:39 PM
96 Make fare options fare for everyone, even if old-fashioned 1/27/2022 10:07 PM
97 Not Everyone is blessed To have Such Financial And/Or Technical Capabilities.1/27/2022 4:15 PM
98 But this burden shouldn’t be on the bus system because some of these vulnerable groups are
mentally ill, not hygienic, unruly and scary. They driver riders - esp women - off the bus
1/27/2022 2:23 PM
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Packet Pg. 1479 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
125 / 175
system because the bus is unsafe. So please don’t let the BBB became rolling hotels or
hospital rooms.
99 I’m a senior 1/27/2022 1:09 PM
100 Instead of making fares lower across the board, fare reductions and financial aid programs
should be targeted towards these groups.
1/27/2022 8:50 AM
101 Kinda pretentious to assume “poor” people need to have things explained to them.1/27/2022 8:17 AM
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Packet Pg. 1480 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
126 / 175
55.92%378
24.11%163
11.24%76
3.85%26
2.07%14
2.81%19
Q20 Make Big Blue Bus passes available at more locations (e.g., grocery
stores, 7-Eleven, mini markets, pharmacies, etc.).
Answered: 676 Skipped: 39
TOTAL 676
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Why not?2/17/2022 2:05 PM
2 I would prefer more TAP ticket vending machines instead 2/17/2022 8:15 AM
3 Right now is a big issue for me to reload tap card I do not have large amount of cash so I have
to load small amount at one time
2/17/2022 8:06 AM
4 Yes, it's difficult to locate where to buy Big Blue Bus fares.2/16/2022 3:30 PM
5 Make it easy and accessible. Engage all businesses that can to promote bus and transit green
commuting.
2/16/2022 2:20 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Extremely
important
Very important
Somewhat
important
Not so
important
Not at all
important
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Extremely important
Very important
Somewhat important
Not so important
Not at all important
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1481 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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6 It's so hard to find these places now that sell the bus passes. We got none near our house and
have to spend time on trips to the train stations that have the ticket machines. There arent that
many pharmacies and grocery stores around though either, they're not that close for
everybody.
2/15/2022 8:12 PM
7 Fewer excuses not to pay.2/15/2022 5:47 PM
8 How about on the bus?2/15/2022 3:43 PM
9 Update list, went to CVS Pharmacy and they said nope. Open Transit Store on Saturdays 2/15/2022 1:11 PM
10 Commuters love the idea of not having to go so far to be able to re-load their TAP cards.
Sometimes, the train stations are just too far to get this done.
2/15/2022 9:36 AM
11 Essential to reduce impact of eliminating cash option.2/15/2022 5:09 AM
12 Yes, buy local! Everyone wins.2/14/2022 10:56 PM
13 and TAP cards since you're taking cash, make these easy to get as possible 2/14/2022 7:17 PM
14 agree 2/14/2022 5:44 PM
15 An obvious. action to take.2/14/2022 4:10 PM
16 Not important because we are going to change to just using one card "TAP"2/14/2022 3:52 PM
17 There just aren't enough groceries and 7 elevens around for how many people will need to buy
these passes. In some areas in santa monica especially, and nearby places where BBB routes
go through, you have to walk a mile or 2 or 3 to get to even one of these stores. Then you
have to get in a line behind 10 people buying their cigs and booze or junk food or cartfuls of
groceries. These places are really not staffed well nowadays. And bus passes aren't sold at
self check machines.
2/14/2022 2:56 PM
18 Would make it easier to get the pass instead of having to take the bus (or buses) all the way to
the SM beach location.
2/14/2022 1:29 PM
19 Having much more access to places where BBB bus customers can buy fare products is very
important because the individual bus customer may not live close to somewhere where that
have to purchase their fare products and it’s much better to have more places where BBB
customers can buy their fare products.
2/14/2022 1:28 PM
20 Accessibility - Right now I do not have a clue as to where I can get a pass. I would love to buy
a pass at CVS or a local food market.
2/14/2022 1:01 PM
21 It's sad to have to use up a ride in order to get the card replenished 2/14/2022 12:57 PM
22 This is more of the push for cashless fares. When folks want to go somewhere, they should
look for a bus, not a 7-11.
2/14/2022 12:27 PM
23 For convenience 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
24 that would help a lot 2/14/2022 11:14 AM
25 Without a point-of-purchase cash option, none of this really matters.2/14/2022 10:32 AM
26 N/C 2/14/2022 10:31 AM
27 This will help people who can't get to the blue bus store 2/14/2022 10:28 AM
28 It is difficult for those who have no transportation to find locations that sell these passes.
Important that as many retailers partner with BBB to sell these passes.
2/14/2022 10:19 AM
29 You should have more ticket machines. A lot more. It's a lot of hassle buying bus passes at
registers in major stores and corner marts.
2/11/2022 3:42 PM
30 Would go well with increasing TAP card access at convenience stores and pharmacies :^)2/10/2022 9:04 PM
31 Not promoted enough.2/10/2022 9:00 PM
32 also make it easer to obtain Senior passes 2/10/2022 8:44 PM
33 Yes, please!! Most of the time, I have to run to the transit store on a weekday, otherwise I
won't have my card reload for the next day.
2/10/2022 5:35 PM
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34 If you don't have a TAP card, but you need to take the bus for any number of reasons, having
your passes available in more places makes it more likely the bus will be the transportation
choice
2/10/2022 4:14 PM
35 just one stop for every few blocks, or else the bus will stop every 30 seconds and be very
crowded
2/10/2022 2:12 PM
36 Yes! Particularly because the Transit store has limited hours and is closed weekends 2/10/2022 2:03 PM
37 Why not? Give grocery stores a tad more business and easy to do 2/10/2022 11:30 AM
38 But older folks will still have to travel to receive them, often a difficult situation.2/10/2022 7:25 AM
39 Just as a courtesy for people to come and buy it in convenience stores 2/10/2022 3:22 AM
40 Easy now for me, but this may be a good method for many others.2/9/2022 10:06 PM
41 That would be good in case people don't live by a certain store that sells Big Blue Bus passes.2/9/2022 7:55 PM
42 Make them available also at schools, post offices, banks and install kiosks.2/9/2022 6:22 PM
43 Accessible to seniors.2/9/2022 5:56 PM
44 AND make it possible to easily determine how much fare you have on the card without having
to register online or call TAP for assistance AND allow for cash option
2/9/2022 5:15 PM
45 Hand them out everywhere. Send them out to seniors, pre loaded.2/9/2022 4:42 PM
46 But still allow cash! These locations aren't all open 24hrs. ALSO, HOW IS SOMEONE ABLE
TO RIDE IF THEY DON'T KNOW THE REQUIREMENT OF GETTING A PASS & DON'T
KNOW WHERE GET IT.??
2/9/2022 4:21 PM
47 These aren't good places for selling bus passes at high volume. Whenever I see someone
trying to buy passes at these stores, they have to stand in line forever behind people buying
food, alcohol, lottery tickets, and everything else sold in these highly crowded stores. And
there aren't enough employees in many such stores now so the lines are even longer now.
Grocery stores rarely if ever have anybody at the customer service counter where they keep
items like bus passes and you've got to wait for ages and ages for them to find a manager..
2/9/2022 3:50 PM
48 Important if you are going to eliminate cash payment.2/9/2022 2:13 PM
49 Again, important for Accessability. Transit store hours don’t work for everyone.2/9/2022 8:02 AM
50 None whatsoever.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
51 With the introduction of this new system, new machines are a must and should be in close
proximities to bus stops or any transit stop. This is needed to either buy a TAP card or to
simply reload it with either cash, coins, or debit/credit card. Otherwise, people won’t get TAP
cards and use the transit if they don’t have some place or machine to purchase or to reload a
TAP card
2/8/2022 2:07 PM
52 Right now there are way too few locations to charge Tap cards.2/8/2022 12:36 PM
53 It makes it convenient and accessible.2/8/2022 10:52 AM
54 Increase access – yes.2/8/2022 12:36 AM
55 Good idea 2/7/2022 11:12 PM
56 Especially if you want customers to only pay only with TAP.2/7/2022 10:52 PM
57 Accessibility is the most important consideration especially if the bus drivers can't sell the
products on board. Not everyone can get to a tap vending machine before reaching the bus.
But obvious places like third street should have some.
2/7/2022 9:14 PM
58 YES. It could address my comments 2/7/2022 9:10 PM
59 TAP cards aren't everywhere, you know.2/7/2022 7:43 PM
60 The only place I want to purchase passes is online.2/7/2022 6:52 PM
61 Yes this is necessary 2/7/2022 6:39 PM
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Packet Pg. 1483 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
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62 hard to understand where to find and access tap machines 2/7/2022 3:42 PM
63 Very important step; why is it so centralized, it si sickening.2/7/2022 2:59 PM
64 Avoid using a bus fare.2/7/2022 2:33 PM
65 If you're not accepting cash and people are not told they just don't have to pay, really.2/7/2022 1:51 PM
66 The more the better 2/7/2022 1:30 PM
67 Tap card stations are accessible to most but would improve the likelihood of the general public
paying, if tap card stations were to be more accessible.
2/7/2022 1:05 PM
68 I went to 7 stores ( had to wait for someone to drive me around) and the Transportation Center
was difficult to ‘catch ‘ open.
2/7/2022 12:43 PM
69 This is a real issue, since it is a pain to deal with BB re passes. Difficult to find locations
convenient, on line refill is not a well developed app and really is only useful for 'banking'
clients.
2/7/2022 12:04 PM
70 Very very important that accessibility to find locations in easy peasy way.2/7/2022 11:46 AM
71 Yes, make it easier to load bus cards.2/7/2022 11:45 AM
72 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
73 Right now, I only know of getting a tap card at the rail system 2/7/2022 11:25 AM
74 Especially if cash is no longer accepted 2/7/2022 11:21 AM
75 Before you had online payments I couldn’t find the time to load money to my physical card and
stopped using the bus. Please provide more avenues to add funds to our tap accounts.
2/7/2022 11:13 AM
76 Don’t get too corporate 😋 but a good idea.2/7/2022 11:08 AM
77 If Big Blue Bus stops accepting cash onboard altogether, this is a must. And make it obvious!
Signs in the window of retailers etc.
2/7/2022 11:04 AM
78 More important is to clearly publish where they're available, and that those places are actually
accessible. I would want a physical pass / tap card, not electronic credentials, PLEASE, but I
imagine the majority of riders would gladly adopt an app.
2/7/2022 11:04 AM
79 Tap card machines at larger busier stops not just at the trains.2/7/2022 11:01 AM
80 Yes 2/7/2022 10:55 AM
81 Using the metro tap card makes this less important.2/7/2022 10:51 AM
82 Can't people upload fares through the Transit app? Maybe just do a better job of advertising the
app.
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
83 YES PLEASE!!!!2/7/2022 10:50 AM
84 Absolutely yes 2/7/2022 10:49 AM
85 This will make sure people can load their cards immediately. I tried to buy at 7 eleven once
and they were out. Another time I tried to load my card there and they said I didn’t have the
right tap card ! So I loaded my card on the app which takes hours to update.
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
86 Selling tap cards at target, trader joes, CVS would be useful 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
87 As a regular big blue bus rider I myself didn’t find it hard to access the transit app on my
phone but there are people who either don’t have a phone, limited access and almost always
ask me where they can get a tap card
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
88 Yes! Especially if you move forward with not accepting cash, tap cards need to be readily
accessible, and putting them in grocery stores/convenience stores/mini markets would
definitely solve that.
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
89 Hoorah! Logical and very very helpful.2/7/2022 10:46 AM
90 This is great and all, but my usual stops aren't near these stores.2/7/2022 10:44 AM
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Packet Pg. 1484 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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91 Have you ever been to the BBB store?2/7/2022 10:39 AM
92 YES!!! WE NEED THIS ACCESSIBLE TO ALL PEOPLE 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
93 If you are switching to cashless this is a must.2/7/2022 10:37 AM
94 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
95 Having a wide range of locations available to purchase passes makes it convenient and
encourages people to ride the BBB. Personally, I dreaded the switch to tap cards because of
the limited locations available to reload the card.
2/5/2022 9:39 AM
96 Definitely makes sense. Once you’re out on the street, you need to limit paces!2/4/2022 2:49 PM
97 BBB passes need to be available at each stop, especially if you are banning cash fares.2/3/2022 7:43 AM
98 It makes sense to have more locations for people to reload a TAP card.2/2/2022 9:39 PM
99 Some passengers can't travel to the locations where one can get the passes.2/2/2022 3:00 PM
100 Yes, definitely.2/1/2022 4:55 PM
101 Most such places are not open 24/7, and tend to run out of passes at random times. Some
just don't or won't carry them at all, which will create confusion and difficulty for many people
who try to find passes at such stores. It's not reliable at all. Agency-owned ticket machines at
bus stops would actually be reliable and not confusing.
1/31/2022 10:00 PM
102 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
103 BBB office or 7-eleven because hours open. Not any place for starters on this type of program.
Encourage BBB office, best to determine options for customer.
1/30/2022 9:34 PM
104 Grocery stores or pharmacies good idea.1/28/2022 2:10 PM
105 More places to purchase fares is definitely very important. If you can somehow work with
Metro to program the Ticket Vending Machines along the Expo Line, or have Big Blue Bus
specific machines, that would be helpful too.
1/27/2022 11:39 PM
106 If Big Blue Bus is not accepting cash on buses, they should have passes available in stores to
be fair
1/27/2022 10:07 PM
107 It should be as easy as falling off a log to access fare passes 1/27/2022 5:39 PM
108 To search for a vending machine or vendor is difficult for many.1/27/2022 4:54 PM
109 This is VERY IMPORTANT! It is now very difficult for many people to ride the BBB because of
not having a way to pay for the fare.
1/27/2022 3:40 PM
110 Will really help to not always go to Santa Monica just for that will be easier for us to get it
closer to home
1/27/2022 2:58 PM
111 I have both TAP card and Transit app so I don't need to more fare vending locations.1/27/2022 2:37 PM
112 Move to tap/app 1/27/2022 2:23 PM
113 Terrific. I can't always get to the big blue bus office to purchase pass.1/27/2022 2:21 PM
114 Yes accessibility is important!1/27/2022 2:03 PM
115 For reasons of convenience and accessibility 1/27/2022 1:09 PM
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Packet Pg. 1485 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
131 / 175
59.58%401
23.03%155
10.70%72
3.57%24
1.04%7
2.08%14
Q21 Make more TAP ticket vending machines available at key bus stops
and transit hubs.
Answered: 673 Skipped: 42
TOTAL 673
#REASONS, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 how about coin changers so we can change our dollars into quarters? God knows America
needs access to quarters again -- people will be grateful for the ease with which we can once
again do our apartment laundry facilities! We need quarters ~!~
2/17/2022 2:05 PM
2 We need that, like at Wilshire and 6th among many others 2/17/2022 8:06 AM
3 Yes with a certain code for current user for easy access to avoid any problems from persons
vandalizing
2/16/2022 3:30 PM
4 Cashless and contact-less payment demand more TAP ticket vending machines!2/16/2022 2:20 PM
5 It would be real nice to be able to actually buy tickets at bus stops. It sure makes a lot more 2/15/2022 8:12 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Extremely
important
Very important
Somewhat
important
Not so
important
Not at all
important
Unsure or
don't know
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Extremely important
Very important
Somewhat important
Not so important
Not at all important
Unsure or don't know
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1486 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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sense that not having any way to buy tickets anywhere near a bus stop, and being refused
your bus ride by the driver when you're holding money in your hands trying to pay. All these
changes are so you can say you're so hightech now and your buses run faster, just to get more
of the people with money and good jobs, creditcards and smartphones to use your buses. But
youre not really hightech at all cause you put no ticket selling machines at your bus stops and
youre sending people with cash all the way to grocery-stores and 7-11s to buy tickets. It's
ridiculous. It's like the middle ages now for us who use cash to pay.
6 Or on the bus 2/15/2022 1:11 PM
7 Super important! Most transit hubs should supply these vending machines. I do understand
that it may be a bit tricky in certain neighborhoods, but it is very welcoming knowing that you
don't have to go so far, especially when there is a key bus stop that is so much closer than the
closest train station:)
2/15/2022 9:36 AM
8 Essential to reduce impact of eliminating cash option.2/15/2022 5:09 AM
9 yes as long as they are vandal-proof!2/14/2022 10:56 PM
10 I appreciate the rationale behind requiring contactless payments but the barriers to actually
getting one for infrequent riders or visitors is just too high without sufficient preplanning.
2/14/2022 9:03 PM
11 ditto to above 2/14/2022 7:17 PM
12 Yes this would be very helpful to a lot of people esp seniors 2/14/2022 5:44 PM
13 Makes sense.2/14/2022 4:29 PM
14 Open to abuse by homeless and crime types.2/14/2022 4:10 PM
15 I believe TAP cards should be registered to a person.2/14/2022 4:04 PM
16 Easy access is always a plus.2/14/2022 3:52 PM
17 see previous answers 2/14/2022 3:23 PM
18 After you stopped taking cash fares, I've been hearing so many people complaining that they
can't buy tickets at the bus stops and so there's no way they can get on a bus with cash. The
bus drivers say they can't sell you tickets, but there's nowhere to buy them at any of the bus
stops in our neighborhood.
2/14/2022 2:56 PM
19 another option for accessibility.2/14/2022 1:29 PM
20 Yes, I definitely think that this is very important thing to do because the Metro system has fare
machines in prominent places. Why not the BBB do this, as well?
2/14/2022 1:28 PM
21 Could be nice. May have to deal with increased vandalism.2/14/2022 12:57 PM
22 Again, this is more of the push for cashless fares. This helps if you are where a machine is,
doesn't help when you aren't.
2/14/2022 12:27 PM
23 i don't understand why these things are only at metro rail and busway stations....2/14/2022 12:09 PM
24 To better serve customers.2/14/2022 12:07 PM
25 I don't use the vending machines, too hard to see, but better more available access to them
would help many people I'm sure
2/14/2022 11:14 AM
26 Duh!!!2/14/2022 10:52 AM
27 Just accept cash fares, for Heaven's sake!2/14/2022 10:41 AM
28 Vide supra.2/14/2022 10:32 AM
29 N/C 2/14/2022 10:31 AM
30 Make it easy for all to find and purchase and use!2/14/2022 10:19 AM
31 If you insist on TAP cards and not cash, this would be very helpful. Get rid of or greatly
improve the mobile app, which currently totally sucks!!
2/14/2022 10:16 AM
32 Why did you switch to cashless payments only in the first place when there are no ticket
machines anywhere around? It's completely contradictory and makes no sense. What kind of
2/11/2022 3:42 PM
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Packet Pg. 1487 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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person came up with this idea, and what was the management thinking to approve it??
33 You should be able to buy TAP cards at (more + clearly marked) convenience stores in
addition to BBB passes!
2/10/2022 9:04 PM
34 At least in a stragetic ones.2/10/2022 5:35 PM
35 Particularly at major transportation hubs, but also, in neighborhoods and in shopping areas 2/10/2022 4:14 PM
36 Yes!2/10/2022 2:03 PM
37 if your pass runs out, getting to destination can mean miles of walking--physical condition for
seniors and overall safety element.
2/10/2022 11:30 AM
38 Great if you live near a bus stop or transit line 2/10/2022 7:25 AM
39 People don’t want to go far to train station to buy or reload it 2/10/2022 3:22 AM
40 TAP vending machines should be at bus stops and although they are at few transit hubs, there
should be more.
2/9/2022 7:55 PM
41 I don’t know anything about it.2/9/2022 5:56 PM
42 If cash not accepted, access to purchase areas need to be obvious!2/9/2022 4:21 PM
43 It would be doable for people to buy your new plastic cards if there were actually machines that
sold them anywhere that a bus stops. That's kind of obvious. I'm unsure what you mean by
"key" bus stops though. It sounds like you're aiming for every 1 out of 20-50 stops. That's near
useless. There should be a way to buy tickets or passes with cash at every stop.
2/9/2022 3:50 PM
44 THIS THIS THIS THIS THIS THIS THIS 2/9/2022 1:24 PM
45 Important but please also publicize the TAP smartphone app as a workaround 2/9/2022 12:21 PM
46 TAP vending machines at key bus stops and transit hubs are often vandalized and attract
homeless people begging from customers
2/9/2022 9:01 AM
47 Increase ridership access more machines would help get tap cards.2/9/2022 8:02 AM
48 None whatsoever.2/8/2022 2:07 PM
49 Same as previous comment 2/8/2022 2:07 PM
50 When there are enough easy available locations to charge Tap Cards cash less becomes an
option, but that is currantly not the case. First create the infrastructure to charge Tap cards
than make the move to go Cashless. Big Blue Bus seem to force the issue too soon, without
the infrastructure in place.
2/8/2022 12:36 PM
51 It may reduce the lines or create more options in case one is out of service.2/8/2022 10:52 AM
52 Only if security personnel were available for assistance 2/8/2022 8:30 AM
53 Increase access.2/8/2022 12:36 AM
54 More easy for everybody 2/7/2022 11:12 PM
55 Especially if you want customers to pay only with TAP card, although I think it's think it's bad
idea.
2/7/2022 10:52 PM
56 The easier/more convenient it is to purchase fares, the better it is for everyone 2/7/2022 10:00 PM
57 They need to be at every stop, or you need a phone app equivalent.2/7/2022 9:46 PM
58 YES! This is the best option!2/7/2022 9:14 PM
59 This this this! Read my other comments. Loading my tap is a literally a TRIP. Yes! Puns
always.
2/7/2022 9:10 PM
60 Yes 2/7/2022 7:43 PM
61 There are far too few ways to refill a tap card. But I would greatly prefer a way to do it online,
or apply institutional cards to a phone wallet.
2/7/2022 6:53 PM
62 I pay with the TAP app on my phone.2/7/2022 6:52 PM
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63 Especially if you will discontinue taking cash/coins 2/7/2022 4:08 PM
64 So people can get it anywhere, facilitation.Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on
people s finances.
2/7/2022 2:59 PM
65 Online may be safer 2/7/2022 2:55 PM
66 Avoids using a bus fare.2/7/2022 2:33 PM
67 I remember when I first started riding the big blue bus, I always carried cash with me because I
never found ticket vending machines near BBB stops.
2/7/2022 2:11 PM
68 Less stuff on the street, more trees.2/7/2022 2:10 PM
69 Point of purchase should be where you are going to actually use the service.2/7/2022 1:53 PM
70 Will be vandalized and rendered inoperable almost upon installation.2/7/2022 1:51 PM
71 Two tap card vending machines at all train stations is great. Although having more locations
would allow the public to access a tap card at all.
2/7/2022 1:05 PM
72 Never found a machine 2/7/2022 12:43 PM
73 Only more machines would be needed if there is constantly a big crowd of people in line at
each station, but this doesn't seem to be the case!
2/7/2022 12:42 PM
74 Personally I have my cell phone, but we need to make sure that people who don’t have access
to one Can buy a pass
2/7/2022 12:39 PM
75 Depends on how much citizens will need to rely on and have access to TAP tickets, obviously.2/7/2022 12:38 PM
76 See 20 above.2/7/2022 12:04 PM
77 Just accept cash.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
78 Easy to navigate 2/7/2022 11:46 AM
79 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
80 Cost if this vs. electronic? I myself am not pro- digital for everything, so?2/7/2022 11:08 AM
81 With variation of fares available ie. senior & student options 2/7/2022 11:06 AM
82 This is super essential! If someone is trying to board a bus on Wilshire, I’m not even sure what
they’re supposed to do? Walk all the way to the Downtown Santa Monica metro station?
Definitely set up additional TAP machines (and make sure drivers know where to direct
people)!!!
2/7/2022 11:04 AM
83 The last time I tried using the app to board your bus, it failed from the time I sat on the bench,
to the time I got off the bus, which was, a long time. Not that different from the performance of
the Santa Monica City App, which continues to fail since it was "improved". If your "app"
and/or "courtesy fare" policies don't take care of those-who-can't-pay, then yes, you'll need
more TAP dispenser/ATMs. Maybe in place of TAP machines, a sign that explains courtesy-
fare policy. Most people are honest.
2/7/2022 11:04 AM
84 Oops that’s what I was asking in above comment.2/7/2022 11:01 AM
85 Important but many people still vouch for cash payment as well.2/7/2022 10:59 AM
86 Vending machines? Really? Should we build more pay phones too?2/7/2022 10:55 AM
87 Oh, wow, are you FINALLY thinking about this?!2/7/2022 10:52 AM
88 Within reason! Theft and damage are big concerns.2/7/2022 10:51 AM
89 Can't people upload fares through the Transit app? Maybe just do a better job of advertising the
app.
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
90 If you’re going to do away with accepting cash, this seems extremely extremely necessary.2/7/2022 10:50 AM
91 This would be helpful as having to walk all the way to the Metro to load is inconvenient and
dangerous
2/7/2022 10:49 AM
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92 Definitely live this proposal because big blue bus doesn’t just operate in Santa Monica but
rather connects Santa Monica to other cities.
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
93 Again, access, esp if no cash payments 2/7/2022 10:47 AM
94 there should be help at tap stations or nake it clearly understood. I loaded 50$ on tap and it
does NOT apply to BBB only can use on metro! Ugh you guys are terrible!
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
95 Culver City allows you to add to your tab card on the bus. That’s the simplest way. You don’t
need to get a temp code very often so those stations are not so important. It doesn’t make
total sense to have a tap card vending machine somewhere in downtown Santa Monica, not
just at the train station. Or you could buy it on the bus. The one downtown could just dispense
tab cards for two dollars with no value on them. Then you would add value on the bus. Or I
have a complete fancy tap card machine there. Or a simpler one where you could just put
value on.
2/7/2022 10:41 AM
96 go to no cost rides 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
97 If you are going to take away cashless payment you need to have one at every corner or every
stop
2/7/2022 10:37 AM
98 If you are switching to cashless this is a must.2/7/2022 10:37 AM
99 Existing tap infrastructure is pathetic and outdated. The online reload process is essentially
non functional
2/7/2022 10:34 AM
100 There are not enough places to buy TAP cards 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
101 Let’s hope homeless don’t temper with them 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
102 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
103 Will create bigger issues maintaining them / vandalism 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
104 If cash is no longer accepted, load and reload location availability is very important.2/7/2022 10:15 AM
105 Convenience is key to encourage more people to ride the bus.2/5/2022 9:39 AM
106 Good idea! Not always easy to get to the few vending machines now to load a card— like for
visitors from out of town!
2/4/2022 2:49 PM
107 At *every* stop, especially if you are banning cash fares.2/3/2022 7:43 AM
108 They should be at every bus stop. How can you even consider refusing to accept cash
payment when there are no ticket machines in sight at 99 percent of the bus stops??
2/2/2022 4:29 PM
109 Convenience 2/2/2022 3:00 PM
110 Especially if you go contactless.2/1/2022 4:55 PM
111 sure but why not a phone app as well 1/31/2022 12:26 PM
112 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:14 PM
113 This may affect others but I am not sure of any impact on myself. However, there have been
situations in the past where having a machine nearby (major bus stop, etc.) would have been
very nice as I had to leave to get change somewhere. But, I acknowledge the added expense
for doing this(!) and do not think installing hundreds of thousands of dollars of machines that
are now likely to be vandalized. Way too expensive of a proposition logistically speaking.
1/31/2022 8:48 AM
114 If BBB makes non-cash payment permanent, this would be urgently needed.1/31/2022 8:42 AM
115 Concern with maintenance and vandalism. Bus stops not too clean, hygienic. Expo line
vending machines are well maintained.
1/30/2022 9:34 PM
116 YES please 1/28/2022 7:46 PM
117 If you insist on requiring passes or whatever they should be available at every bus stop,.
Better yet, allow people to board the bus with cash! What a concept. Make the bus available to
everyone , not just poor people and those who use it all the time anyway. Dont you want to
encourage ridership? Well you are cutting out many people with these policies.
1/28/2022 11:02 AM
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Packet Pg. 1490 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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118 Definitely very important to have more places to purchase fares. People are generally fine with
paying for their fares, but please make it easy for all of us.
1/27/2022 11:39 PM
119 More Access is GOOD for Riders.1/27/2022 4:15 PM
120 Also where there are tourists in the downtown area.1/27/2022 3:40 PM
121 Yes please most of us have to go the app or to the train station just to reload even get a
replacement card if we forget or misplaced our original card
1/27/2022 2:58 PM
122 I have both TAP card and Transit app so I don't need to more fare vending machines.1/27/2022 2:37 PM
123 Easier to purchase passes, encouraging more to ride the bus. Overall better for environment
and society.
1/27/2022 2:21 PM
124 Given the crazy cost of buying, installing and maintaining TVMs, the agency would be better
off letting people ride free.
1/27/2022 2:02 PM
125 That is important, sometimes we don’t have the BBB offices close to home 1/27/2022 1:43 PM
126 For reasons of convenience and accessibility 1/27/2022 1:09 PM
127 So passengers don't always have to go to a Metro Rail station to reload Tap Card.1/27/2022 9:19 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1491 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
137 / 175
40.51%271
25.56%171
5.08%34
4.78%32
4.63%31
0.90%6
18.54%124
Q22 In general, how supportive are you of the proposed changes:
Answered: 669 Skipped: 46
TOTAL 669
#REASON, COMMENTS, IDEAS:DATE
1 Some changes are positive. Other changes are making it harder to ride the bus 2/17/2022 8:07 AM
2 I'm in support, but concerned about those who only use cash.2/16/2022 4:48 PM
3 Where I live now the Big Blue Bus stops are reduced to one, making it hard to get to the bus
stop and run ♀ late to appts.
2/16/2022 3:50 PM
4 It's a good commitment to ease the commute.2/16/2022 2:21 PM
5 yes 2/15/2022 8:05 PM
6 X 2/15/2022 3:07 PM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Strongly
support the...
Somewhat
supportive o...
Neutral
Somewhat
against the...
Strongly
against the...
Unsure or
don't know h...
Reason,
comments,...
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Strongly support the proposed changes
Somewhat supportive of the proposed changes
Neutral
Somewhat against the proposed changes
Strongly against the proposed changes
Unsure or don't know how I feel about the proposed changes
Reason, comments, ideas:
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1492 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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7 Do something about the " I don't want to pay folks"2/15/2022 1:12 PM
8 I don’t agree with doing away with cash.2/15/2022 9:55 AM
9 Good for passengers.2/15/2022 5:10 AM
10 Supportive as long as the technology works. Are we there yet? Transitioning people from
buying tickets on board BBB to a TAP Card contact system seems like logical next step.
2/14/2022 10:58 PM
11 Somewhat only because the value of these changes to customers will come to light in the trial
of the services.
2/14/2022 4:13 PM
12 TAP card is OK. The mobile app you are using, TRANSIT, works really, really badly and is
nothing but frustration to use.
2/14/2022 2:31 PM
13 Only against it if there are no other options for seniors and those that lack internet access.2/14/2022 1:34 PM
14 Some people will end up in a bind if they cannot pay cash on board.2/14/2022 1:06 PM
15 I would be supportive if there were more availability to get passes and refill them 2/14/2022 1:03 PM
16 If you haven't gotten the idea that I am against cash-less fares, you haven't been paying
attention.
2/14/2022 12:30 PM
17 i would want to know how such a system would work. is the current tap card system
considered nonpayment? or would it be something that can detect a tap card with fare as i step
onto the bus. or will it be entirely based on the honor system?
2/14/2022 12:12 PM
18 The buses shpuld be free esp for emfermu ot disanled. Tax the car companies to fund metros.2/14/2022 12:06 PM
19 MUST KEEP CASH FARES FOR EASY ACCESS TO TRANSPORTATION.2/14/2022 11:55 AM
20 Does not save time. Drivers must look over to a rider's phone to see ticket rather than just
allowing rider to deposit cash and driving.
2/14/2022 11:10 AM
21 Strongly against this bogus "contactless" fare payment system. You're saving some money on
having machines count the coins and bills, but since you already have this infrastructure, how
much are you actually saving?
2/14/2022 10:44 AM
22 You ignore the reality of riding a bus. If you want payment, you need to allow people to pay
with cash. Exact change, sure, but cash. Because if you don't--and this is a key point--they
are going to ride anyway, except without paying. I SEE THIS ALL THE TIME!
2/14/2022 10:34 AM
23 N/C 2/14/2022 10:33 AM
24 I strongly support as long as those who have to TAP cards are allowed to either pay with cash
or ride free.
2/14/2022 10:21 AM
25 I think contactless is here to stay/ where a lot of things are headed. It’s a question of how this
plan will be rolled out and if it can be staggered for those who may not be technologically
advantaged to make the transition as quickly.
2/13/2022 9:45 AM
26 A simplified process for purchasing fares is needed.2/12/2022 11:05 AM
27 using cash is convenient 2/10/2022 8:44 PM
28 As long as the BBB buys out stored value on tap cards, educates riders on where and how to
obtain paperless passes, ( in other words makes the process easy to transition to and assures
it to be a fair and equitable system for all riders) I am OK with the fare changes.
2/10/2022 8:01 PM
29 I just need the busses to come on time.2/10/2022 5:36 PM
30 To reinstate cash is very simple. Just take off the cover and activate the machine. No it does
not save time. This whole statement is a fantasy, and not reality.
2/10/2022 2:14 PM
31 I vehemently oppose the discontinuation of Day Passes, 7-Day Passes, and Annual Passes
often paid for by employers. Allow all riders choice and convenience! There is no cost for BBB
to continue offering them
2/10/2022 2:08 PM
32 More frequent service is needed if BBB wins what it wants. Now we often wait 1 to 1 1/2 hours
for bus that is supposed to run every 20 minutes. We miss appointments, work start times and
must allow 3-4 times normal time to get to destinations.
2/10/2022 11:36 AM
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Packet Pg. 1493 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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33 transfers are my priorty 2/10/2022 8:46 AM
34 Isn't ridership down? Waiting to enter a bus in my experience is seldom a problem except at
the SMC Pico stop. Here we have a service catering to a specific, usually none resident
population. Who is the BBB for? Santa Monica residents or out of towners?
2/10/2022 7:34 AM
35 This is practiced in many other cities 2/9/2022 10:06 PM
36 The things I stated have me saying that there are some changes that I am for and against.2/9/2022 7:55 PM
37 I’m not completely understanding what the drivers of the buses are dealing with, that they want
these changes.
2/9/2022 6:11 PM
38 CASH must be an option. No way around the inconvenience a contactless system is for the
general public, visitors, tourists, etc. CASH may be inconvenient for BBB but it seems that
customer service and convenience is more important. The more people, the more options, the
more riders.
2/9/2022 5:17 PM
39 Except, I do not support going entirely cashless.2/9/2022 4:24 PM
40 I am a Senior and on a Social Security budget - the more I can afford to ride the bus , I can be
more active and independent.
2/9/2022 12:31 PM
41 BBB should consider alternative ways to speed up bus service and improve frequency first
such as: stop consolidation, elimination of duplicative service like the Express 7, and most
importantly ALL DOOR BOARDING. These will improve bus service for everyone without
penalizing people that do not have the ability to easily use contactless fare payment systems
or putting people at the mercy of each bus driver's attitude about accepting people without full
fare
2/9/2022 12:23 PM
42 I am mostly supportive of the proposed changes, but believe we should do more to
lower/eliminate fares especially for those who rely on public transit as their primary method of
transportation and may struggle to pay for bus fare.
2/9/2022 10:04 AM
43 cash fares are needed for people who use the bus infrequently and also for tourists 2/9/2022 9:02 AM
44 Cash should be accepted 2/9/2022 8:08 AM
45 Some seniors are not savvy with usage with getting tap cards, etc. please make it easy for
people who are unable to have access to banks, computers, etc.
2/9/2022 8:07 AM
46 I would be suportive of these changes, but I feel BBB is trying to push these changes too
soon. The infrastructure to charge Tap Cards is not in place. BBB is expecting their Customers
the bus riders to be inconvenienced in order to make it easier on themselves. Suggestion, first
create the proper infrastructure to charge Tap cards than go Cashless.
2/8/2022 12:49 PM
47 Efficiency and time arrival are important for people who need to get to work.2/8/2022 10:54 AM
48 Works fine for me but there is likely a significant segment of your riders who do not participate
in this technology.
2/8/2022 7:53 AM
49 If question 22 pertains to contactless fare payment (which is NOT clear), I oppose.2/8/2022 12:40 AM
50 Is more easy and more fast servíce 2/7/2022 11:18 PM
51 As mentioned before, I see this as a barrier to increasing ridership. (But believe offering
courtesy rides for those without card helps mitigate this)
2/7/2022 11:14 PM
52 The fare reduction seems fair since your public transportation system is expensive. Also,
providing free rides to homeless people and others as courtesy is not a good idea. Buses are
not safe and prices go up.
2/7/2022 10:55 PM
53 I 2/7/2022 9:49 PM
54 I think it's bullshit. Puts a minor gain in efficiency ahead of the rider. Will drive away casual
users, tourists, etc. Just make it free if you're serious. Fares are a double tax on the folks
riding public transit.
2/7/2022 9:49 PM
55 I left comments in other areas about why this has been difficult. If you put tap vendors on the
stops and make your fare cards available even at convenience stores around LA like 7/11, it
could make this a lot more effective and less burdensome for riders in every way.
2/7/2022 9:20 PM
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Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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56 Most of them have some real potential. Others seem like they need to be fleshed out a little
more.
2/7/2022 9:15 PM
57 I agree it speeds up the process but there are so many people who don’t have the extra cash
to fork for a tap card. Granted I’m aware they don’t cost an absurd amount but if one were to
forget it they’d have to cut into what they have and that $3-5 can be extremely important for
them.
2/7/2022 8:19 PM
58 I use the TAP app on my phone to pay and add money to my account.2/7/2022 6:53 PM
59 keep the option of cash for emergency situations.2/7/2022 3:43 PM
60 Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s finances.2/7/2022 3:01 PM
61 Low fares and the driver focusing on safety, not fares…that’s great.2/7/2022 2:51 PM
62 I see many riders boarding with cash fare. And no way to pay. My self included. We all forget
our tap card. Or don't have one and want to pay. And don't have a new fancy cell phone with
that way to pay.
2/7/2022 2:39 PM
63 People can adjust to using. Tap card.2/7/2022 2:35 PM
64 I do believe most people have transitioned to a contact less world, so I think a full, official
transition for BBB will be great overall. If the frequency of service can also go up, especially
for the Line 3, Line 16, Line 7, and Line 8, that would be great! I hope Line 16 can run earlier,
later, more often, and on weekends.
2/7/2022 2:16 PM
65 By contactless you mean a TAP card right?2/7/2022 1:56 PM
66 The passes are an unnecessary burden.2/7/2022 12:45 PM
67 Supportive if buying the tap card is lade easier than it now is; more selling stations/methods
needed.
2/7/2022 12:19 PM
68 I'm on the fence, because though I enjoy saving time. To what expense does this luxury cost. I
suppose having to load fair is not to much of a hassle. Long as I can do so using my smart
device.
2/7/2022 12:16 PM
69 support general notion, but you need to do several good things: make it real easy to get cards
and to know the value at any time, educate consumers, and visitors!, do more to facilitate
intermodal transit. BBB has not been very good on any of these things, and while the fares are
better and simpler, if you continue to as poor a job on access/usage and clarity, it is not much
use to the consumer.
2/7/2022 12:08 PM
70 I need to see the data on who does or doesn’t already have a contactless card. If it’s more
marginalized populations that don’t have a card, then we need to let them still use their
existing tokens or paper cards or make it easy for them to get one (for example mailing or
emailing them contactless fare).
2/7/2022 11:54 AM
71 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
72 You can probably track victims and criminals this way too 2/7/2022 11:26 AM
73 I think that if the vending machines/kiosks for physical tap cards were available at key stops
and retailers commonly around those stops, all of these changes would make a very positive
impact and serve much of the population positively. however, if an increase in these vending
machines did not occur with the move to contactless, I think it would be a great detriment to a
portion of the population who might not have access to a smart device
2/7/2022 11:22 AM
74 This change does not include fair accessability to those in need of transportation but not to
those who have no tech savvy
2/7/2022 11:12 AM
75 Speed & efficiency - VIP! PR for the citizens & company- a delicate balance.2/7/2022 11:12 AM
76 Hmm. If contactless fare actually allows for reduced fare overall, I’m more supportive of it. I
personally have a TAP card through my school, but please make sure that obtaining them for
riders who may not have used them before, may not have much money to pay for the card
itself, or may be unfamiliar with technology in general are not left in the dark.
2/7/2022 11:11 AM
77 Pls Help seniors and the poor ride the bbb 2/7/2022 11:09 AM
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78 I am in favor of everything but the “no cash allowed” ticket fare. Few people use it already and
those that do, often need it
2/7/2022 11:07 AM
79 It is classist and ableist to deny cash fare.2/7/2022 11:01 AM
80 I support some of these, some I am very much against.2/7/2022 11:00 AM
81 I’m for some of the BBB adjustments in order to have a more efficient ride. Those that
currently ride the bus and those that favor public transport, will see the reduction of cost as a
positive change. However, reducing payment to a contactless one may prove to discourage
elderly or ppl will difficulties with technology to not use the BBB unless it’s made accessible. If
we want to increase BBB ridership, we should increase the number of buses, reduce bus time
intervals between stops, add more bus stops, add express/local buses.
2/7/2022 10:59 AM
82 All I know is that there’s a driver shortage and some of the drivers are cool and some of the
others are straight up assholes.
2/7/2022 10:57 AM
83 I regularly take the bus and was not happy about my bus fare not loading in a timely fashion
and not being able to load my card at places other than the Metro stations. I also have paid
much more in fares when I really couldn’t afford to because the monthly passes are expensive.
2/7/2022 10:56 AM
84 Getting rid of the cash option makes sense on paper, but is a terrible idea. Please don’t do
this. Not only are people who pay with cash typically are going to be annoyed, but people are
gonna say it’s 1984 and you can’t even take a bus without a credit card blah blah blah.
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
85 Have ridden buses in other places with similar policies 2/7/2022 10:50 AM
86 I understand the efficiency of it, but could be a barrier for people who cannot afford electronic
devices/cannot use them
2/7/2022 10:50 AM
87 While I do agree that contactless forms of payment make boarding busses a little faster. It’s
for the benefit of the people that they have different options of how to pay. A lot of people still
pay, still prefer to pay cash.
2/7/2022 10:50 AM
88 many canceled bus rides, unreliable schedule, filthy busses. Riders are abandoning transit for
these reasons
2/7/2022 10:48 AM
89 Again, the problem is your drivers are too arbitrary when it comes to courtesy rises.2/7/2022 10:46 AM
90 Support, but with other options available 2/7/2022 10:45 AM
91 Supportive, as long as those without cards or phones are ALWAYS allowed to board.2/7/2022 10:45 AM
92 You said a lot of things and I don’t know which are the proposed changes.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
93 The only thing I have against the proposed changes is how they will negatively impact the
most vulnerable members of our community. Who happen to be the ones who most use public
transportation.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
94 Make it easier for all of us to be able to add $ to our tap card if we are not near a machine 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
95 I don't always have money in the bank or on my credit cards 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
96 I am good with the change as long as there is plenty of help in getting elders, disabled, and
homeless community members acquainted with the new process and for their to be options
available for those without bank accounts/internet connection to load their contactless
payment.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
97 Your service runs worse now than before. Going contactless has changed nothing.2/7/2022 10:35 AM
98 People should have options. Some people don't have smart phones.2/7/2022 10:34 AM
99 I think it adds a lot of trouble and inconvenience for people without bank accounts.2/7/2022 10:33 AM
100 There are currently not enough tap machines to do only contactless fare payments.2/7/2022 10:33 AM
101 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
102 More busses need to be running at more intervals. I've waited over an hour for the bus
sometimes and I shouldn't have to pay for a service that doesn't come on time or is clean and
accessible
2/6/2022 9:55 PM
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103 I think the transition period would cause significant delays… if people don’t realize they can
only use a tap card. Offering a grace period of free fares for those without cards would help,
but sadly, some might take advantage decreasing revenue.
2/5/2022 9:42 AM
104 We need to keep service frequency and safety in the forefront!!!2/4/2022 2:52 PM
105 Like contactless. Good idea, especially if credit cards are accepted.2/4/2022 2:44 PM
106 Efficiency is important 2/2/2022 3:01 PM
107 I am wary - I wouldn't say I am completely against it anymore, but I do think that making an
allowance for people who don't know any better or forgot or lost their TAP card or something is
important.
2/1/2022 4:56 PM
108 Make it free and I’ll support it 2/1/2022 10:22 AM
109 BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH THE SILLY PASSES!1/31/2022 12:19 PM
110 Good thinking, in support of change for the better.1/30/2022 9:41 PM
111 As long as this would t leave people who have not been a blessing to obtain a tap card
stranded (or elderly who have a hard time adjusting, someone who has to unexpectedly take
the bus but doesn't usually)
1/30/2022 2:49 AM
112 The online tickets are frustrating, because often the machine on the bus will not read the
virtual ticket. I find it frustrating to try to get the virtual ticket to work while "holding on" when
the bus takes off. Consider a better system?!
1/28/2022 1:17 PM
113 Low income workers need little help. And those ideas are good for them.1/28/2022 6:52 AM
114 I am generally supportive of most of your ideas, except the not allowing cash as an option at
all. A slightly higher cash fare should help encourage most people to use TAP cards, while
allowing those who did not have the opportunity to get and load a TAP card to still travel.
Providing courtesy rides for people without TAP cards makes it unfair for those who choose to
pay. In fact, is it a choice to pay, or a requirement to pay?
1/27/2022 11:43 PM
115 Some are good, little more bad especially if not tech-savvy nor have a credit card. Have some
better plans for cash patrons
1/27/2022 10:08 PM
116 Need to keep the option of using cash for riding buses. Good for visitors and those that don't
use buses every day. Would make bus travel more user friendly. Have some change - ride the
bus.
1/27/2022 8:20 PM
117 Only once you have made the adjustments that make passes extremely accessible can you
shift away from cash transactions
1/27/2022 5:42 PM
118 I just don’t understand how transit agencies are complaining about lack of money, even pre-
Covid but yet are still looking for ways to either reduce the fare or eliminate it altogether. Just
increase the fare or keep them at their current rates so that in turn we can continue to have
both reliable and even expanded service.
1/27/2022 5:10 PM
119 Because I am used to paying money on the big blue bus 1/27/2022 2:11 PM
120 Changing to complete contactless limits accessibility.1/27/2022 2:07 PM
121 I'm glad the agency is willing to unwind the most unpopular fare structure change of 2010, the
elimination of transfers. If only it could unwind the blue bus shelters.
1/27/2022 2:04 PM
122 Unfair to certain people 1/27/2022 1:29 PM
123 Some people don’t have iPhones or cannot conveniently buy a dab card. Others are mentally
challenged and would find it difficult or confusing Do use a contactless system
1/27/2022 1:10 PM
124 Just find a way to eliminate fare collection and use other forms of revenue to offset the cost.1/27/2022 8:18 AM
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Q23 Please provide any additional comments regarding the proposed fare
changes below:
Answered: 206 Skipped: 509
#RESPONSES DATE
1 In Question 22, I find it interesting that I cannot be strongly against and submit my
explanations and/or reasons while also stating my preference in terms of supporting or not
supporting the proposed changes. Many of the changes will better serve the people who use
your services but requiring everyone who has the need to use public transit to join the digital
age and give up the freedom use of hard money currency, coin of the realm as it were, is un-
American in that it takes away our freedom of movement, freedom of choice and freedom to
remain anonymous. Authoritarianism versus Democracy. Much of what BBB proposes is good
and well for the public it serves, but going 100% cashless is in truth, fundamentally un-
American. Choice should be the order of the day, and keep live hiring live people to interact
with the public that you serve. Humans require more than Artificial Intelligence to solve our day
to day problems and help us find our way. Gratefully
2/17/2022 2:16 PM
2 Getting rid of fare payment on board should not mean getting rid of fare options online. People
should be allowed to purchase day passes, 7 day passes, etc. if it works for them.
2/17/2022 8:16 AM
3 I'm sorry, but this change to a "contactless" system is dumb. I've tried to use both the mobile
pass and then the stupid tap card the last few months, and they're not any faster than using
cash or paper passes. In fact I usually have more trouble with both of them and they waste
MORE time. Your new machines on the buses work very poorly and at least half the time I get
on a bus it takes me multiple tries and way more time than it should to get the machines to
recognize my pass. I've seen plenty of other bus riders have the same problem when boarding.
The machine for the phone passes takes for-ever to read a pass and often doesn't work at all,
and I've heard the shrill noise of the TAP machine when it misreads a fare card so often by
now that it gives me mental hives, and has imprinted itself into my brain to haunt me even
outside your buses. I usually have several things in my hands when I board a bus, and so
having to try and try and try to get the machine to read my phone or card is very difficult, and
so frequently I nearly lose my balance and fall over when doing it because your bus drivers, to
a one, don't care about basic safety and will start driving off while I'm still standing there right
in front of them, fighting with the machine, and with stuff in my hands so I can't even grab
anything to secure myself. This is not more efficient or faster. This just really unsafe. None of
this nonsense used to happen when I was using paper passes or my student ID. I can't
imagine who could have told you that this new system is working better.
2/16/2022 5:01 PM
4 Fare changes are reasonable, it's the removal of bus/routes on Ocean that would benefit Big
Blue Bus and riders especially the hoards of Tourists who are visiting Santa Monica and LA.
It's time and a hassle to walk around to get a bus that was so close and easy board when they
were on Ocean and Olympic/Colorado ,especially the Rapid 10 to Union Station and the Metro
Rapid 720 buses. They were stationed perfectly across the Santa Monica Pier. Whomever idea
was to relocate them so far away from the crowds and loose revenue must have been on
vacation in the brain .
2/16/2022 3:50 PM
5 Have a campaign with all kinds of multi-racial and multigenerational riders show the fun and
ease of contactless riding.
2/16/2022 2:21 PM
6 I think it would be great if you would just lower the prices for the tickets and passes. And
forget about all these other nonsense changes. People who want to use the tap tickets and the
phone tickets will use them, and great for them. Promote that stuff to them all you want, just
leave the rest of us alone. I don't feel it's right to force people not to use cash no matter their
situations, and force people to only buy one of 2 types of passes that will make them have to
spend more money.
2/15/2022 8:19 PM
7 ok 2/15/2022 8:05 PM
8 BRAVO ! JOB WELL DONE ! Yours Truly, “JD”2/15/2022 4:37 PM
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9 Service and safety should be the priorities. Reducing what are already low and below market
fares does nothing to address this. If customers value the service, they would be happy to pay
a higher fare.
2/15/2022 3:45 PM
10 .2/15/2022 3:07 PM
11 It is fantastic that Big Blue is keeping the fares low. This is highly appreciated for us who are
regular riders of public transportation. Thank you!
2/15/2022 11:58 AM
12 You provide a great service. I am a disabled 81 year old senior in a wheelchair. And to all your
wonderful accomodating drivers. Thank you
2/15/2022 9:55 AM
13 Curious about how the changes will be financed.2/15/2022 5:10 AM
14 Make seniors pay less 2/15/2022 2:15 AM
15 Generally support streamlining offerings and reducing costs. Must make it easier to get the
tickets for infrequent users, visitors and the poor.
2/14/2022 9:04 PM
16 none 2/14/2022 5:44 PM
17 my trolley 2/14/2022 5:40 PM
18 No additional comment.2/14/2022 4:13 PM
19 I just haven't seen that it saves time and money for the passengers. Many of them, at least,
have been losing time and money after being forced to deal with you refusing to take cash.
People have had to go out of their way and waste lots of time looking for a place to buy
tickets. People get stranded when they only have cash, so they lose time and sometimes also
money if they're late for work or job interviews, or get fees charged for missing important
appointments. Also I'm not sure how you're trying to claim more frequent service. I've been
riding BBB buses off and on since last summer, and this is blatantly untrue. Your bus
frequency is now worse than it was before covid, there are almost no late night buses on
routes where they used to be, and many buses from your schedule just never show up at all. I
guess it must save you guys some time and money, but if so you're the only ones benefiting
from this new system.
2/14/2022 3:06 PM
20 The homeless who are unable to pay fare should not be allowed to ride.2/14/2022 2:29 PM
21 Understand the need for speeding up boarding times but there should always be a backup or
allowances made for those that are lacking technology.
2/14/2022 1:34 PM
22 The BBB needs to refund the fare products that BBB customers have bought (like the two 7-
day bus passes I have) since the BBB is insistent on discontinuing these particular fare
products!
2/14/2022 1:33 PM
23 Lowering fares is fine. Getting rid of all cash payments on board is a bad idea.2/14/2022 1:06 PM
24 I am all for promoting cash-less fares. I am against mandating cashless fares. When I was in
Washington D.C. October 2021, I appreciated being able to pay cash for the ONE round-trip
bus ride I needed on 1 day. I would not have been pleased to have to hunt down a place to buy
a pass for my 1 round trip ride.
2/14/2022 12:30 PM
25 Don't allow e-scooters to be parked at bus stops. They're stealing your business, skimming off
the low hanging fruit.
2/14/2022 12:29 PM
26 I wish you would reinstate more Route 10 bus service. # busses in the afternoon and morning
is terrible. The Expo Line is not a suitable alternative.
2/14/2022 12:18 PM
27 I wish there were more available buses for passengers that are waiting to get on the big blue
bus everyday to get to work
2/14/2022 12:15 PM
28 I think the kids 5 and under ride for free would be a great change and being able to use your
Metro 1 day pass on Big Blue Bus is a great change as well which would increase ridership.
2/14/2022 12:09 PM
29 MUST KEEP CASH FARES FOR EASY ACCESS TO TRANSPORTATION. SHOULD NOT
HAVE TO SHOW PASS TO ACCESS BUSES. FREEDOM OF CHOICE.
2/14/2022 11:55 AM
30 Idiotic to eliminate cash.2/14/2022 11:10 AM
31 Fare changes are great but the BBB bus riding experience is horrible. Dirty bus stops, mask 2/14/2022 10:53 AM
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less riders, buses rarely on time, inefficient process for getting on/off the bus, I’m a 20 year
BBB rider & feel you need new leadership, if I could take another Bus company to work, I
would
32 Unless this "contactless" "cashless" system went into effect, I always had a positive
impression of the Big Blue Bus. No longer. Reducing options for your customers -- are the
benefits really that great? Is this a stealth strategy to keep homeless and elderly people off the
bus? Tech savvy people like me may still prefer to pay cash, so don't try to pretend.
2/14/2022 10:44 AM
33 First and foremost return the point-of-purchase cash option. Then ask me again.2/14/2022 10:34 AM
34 NO ADDICIONAL COMMENTS 2/14/2022 10:33 AM
35 I use the buses daily. Cleanliness and safety are the most important to me. I do t feel safe
riding the trains at night and the buses don’t run late enough ( past 9) at night in some lines
2/14/2022 10:30 AM
36 It's annoying to see people not have to pay when I have for over 25 years. Also, the "smell" of
some some customers is overwhelming as other passengers will try to move awary from them.
YIKES!
2/14/2022 10:25 AM
37 This should be an experimental.2/14/2022 10:21 AM
38 It's a good idea to lower fares and add free transfers. Most of the other proposals need to be
rethought or scrapped. I and most people I know have disapproved of the changes in your pilot
program. A number of people in our community had serious difficulties with riding the bus
because of these changes. You should have just encouraged people to switch by lowering the
contactless fare prices and running other promotions, giving out free passes, doing more
advertising... there's plenty of stuff you could have done to encourage people to use your new
system but not force them. Not giving people any choice is overbearing and authoritarian. And
frankly refusing to accept cash as payment, the legal tender of our country, is an outrageous
step to take for so many, many reasons. We don't live in some futuristic cashless society, and
won't in any of our lifetimes.
2/11/2022 3:54 PM
39 I support any changes that increase speed and reliability. However, the biggest opportunity to
enhance is with prioritization on our streets and the development of new housing (esp in TOD
areas). Take a page out of Culver City's book and start make substantive changes in
partnership with your fellow city agencies and leaders.
2/11/2022 11:15 AM
40 No Comment.2/11/2022 1:00 AM
41 How does this save money or time? This is going to cap/decrease ridership, which would
presumably not save money and not allow more frequent service. The time it takes to pay
cash is so negligible -- just require exact change! if a tourist only has a $5, they can buy
themselves a day pass. This is such an unfortunate example from a great system of exactly
what not to do in order to serve the community who relies on you.
2/10/2022 9:52 PM
42 Keep the buses clean 2/10/2022 9:01 PM
43 During the “pandemic”. I have seen people, homeless, tourists, youth take advantage of “I
don’t have the app or whatever but I have cash”. knowing BBB no longer accepts cash. I would
think some drivers are fed up with the current status and let people on and others don’t let
them on. Still others give a warning. This should not fall on driver’s shoulders. They should
only be concerned about driving and getting passengers safely to their destination.
2/10/2022 8:01 PM
44 Thank you for thinking about the big blue bus customers.2/10/2022 4:47 PM
45 As long as you retain the Senior TAP card, and it recognizes the $20 monthly pass, we're
golden. Otherwise, I become a shut-in, because I can't otherwise afford to travel
2/10/2022 4:16 PM
46 other transit agencies in the city have their fair options covered and accept cash ... why would
bbb be different?
2/10/2022 2:14 PM
47 There is no cost for BBB to continue offering the Passes proposed for elimination. Allow riders
choice and convenience!
2/10/2022 2:08 PM
48 Easy routes #41, for example, should be able to keep published schedules without difficulty.
Service is abismal. Why? People would be willing to pay higher fares if service improved.
2/10/2022 11:36 AM
49 just transfers and lower fares like metro for seniors 2/10/2022 8:46 AM
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50 I will never buy a multitrip tap card for services that might happen. This would amount to
payment in advance for services that might not be used. BBB profits, consumer loses.
2/10/2022 7:34 AM
51 Please consider keeping the fare box so that if people have a magnetic stripe paper passes
then they can use it to swipe it on a fare box. And also please keep selling the magnetic stripe
paper passes so that it is a good use to swipe it for fun in case people don’t have tap cards to
use.
2/10/2022 3:25 AM
52 It seems like these changes would make us transportation more accessible and available to a
variety of people. In terms of the environment, if we could get more low cost to ride the bus
rather than Drive, we could reduce the carbon footprint of the city
2/9/2022 11:46 PM
53 If you're trying to alienate the public by proposing all this crap, you will succeed. If things ain't
broke, why fix 'em?
2/9/2022 6:23 PM
54 I’m contactless when I put 2quarters in the machine as I get on the bus. I’m 71 and a half; still
drive with confidence. I’ll see how it goes. I don’t ride the bus except when I’m fairly local and
my car’s getting fixed.( Or I’m confused about parking when I’m not sure how long I’ll be there;
and the bus would be convenient. Also as it gets dark as it is now5.45p.m. The bus,
regardless of the small raise in fares,may be the only choice for many people: so their opinion
on all this. is more important than mine. I already get lost easily!
2/9/2022 6:11 PM
55 Overall, it appears that these changes are positive, especially as a person who does not have
cash is allowed to ride free -- as long as it is not difficult to find a place to buy a ticket, like it is
currently!
2/9/2022 5:17 PM
56 Please continue to take cash from riders. You do not have to count it or deposit it. You can
donate to organizations that help those who don't have phones, bank accounts, access to tap
cards, etc.
2/9/2022 4:44 PM
57 Thanks for Asking!2/9/2022 4:24 PM
58 These changes are kind of terrible. Besides lowering some of the fares, the rest of the
changes will benefit nobody who rides the bus and will cause a lot of us problems. I feel like
most of these changes are just bad news for us bus riders and will make our lives more
restrictive. It doesn't make any sense to be switching to all-contactless bus payment with no
other options when so many people in this city are low income and just low on resources, like
having time to look for a ticket vending machine or the rare stores that sell your passes now.
Many people would find it very difficult and unrealistically expensive or time-consuming to deal
with such a restrictive system for something as basic and necessary for this population as
riding buses. People should have choices on how to pay. And really, this is an especially awful
time for you to choose to make lower-income peoples lives harder, as though covid itself hasn't
done quite enough.
2/9/2022 4:13 PM
59 It would be great to give bus riders an advanced notice about the change if it does occur.
Preferably posters near the bus stops, on the bus, and on social media that announce the
change well ahead to time would help bus riders be aware and prevent them from being
blindsided.
2/9/2022 1:44 PM
60 I am happy to see that people at bus riding incomes of all ages are being considered
appreciated and valued
2/9/2022 12:31 PM
61 It is unfair to conduct this hearing in person only when many (most?) BBB riders do not live in
Santa Monica. People will be taken off guard by this change if it moves forward and will not
feel like their voices have been heard.
2/9/2022 12:23 PM
62 You are awesome guys, keeping up 2/9/2022 10:26 AM
63 Please work in partnership with LA Metro and any other appropriate agencies to seek the
elimination of fares on public transit.
2/9/2022 10:04 AM
64 Not enough fare machines to make contactless payment convenient for elderly or house less
population.
2/9/2022 9:58 AM
65 Drivers need to keep passengers safe when their is bad behavior, smoking, drinking, loud
music on the bus. People coming on the bus not wearing masks. “Crazies” many times I feel
unsafe. I have gotten off the bus.
2/9/2022 8:07 AM
66 Should be looking at making buses free for all to increase ridership and reduce car trips 2/9/2022 7:47 AM
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67 Anyway, I like in the Carson/Long Beach/Torrance area where Del Amo Blvd. is located on the
North and Carson Street on the South, not too far to Del Amo A Line Station. Also, do you
think it's possible that Santa Monica Big Blue Bus should a newly proposed round-trip bus
route service between Downtown Santa Monica and the Harbor Gateway Transit Center? So, I
can connect with many of the Metro and Torrance Transit bus routes along with the proposed
bus route services by Long Beach Transit. Okay? Thank you very much.
2/8/2022 2:10 PM
68 Big Blue Bus should make more effort to ensure all its operators understand the fare policy
(such as allowing a complementary ride) and apply it consistently as this has not always been
the case in my experience.
2/8/2022 1:54 PM
69 It is very important to have Vending machines and Locations conveniently available to charge
Tap Cards. One location option that has not been mentioned anywhere would be the bus.
Install vending machines on the Busses. Might have to sacifice a seat, but that would be the
most convenient place. It should be away from driver so that he can not disturbed.
2/8/2022 12:49 PM
70 I greatly appreciate the opportunity to participate in this survey. I look forward to the changes.2/8/2022 10:54 AM
71 Please implement anything that would make things easier for the bus drivers, who are already
stressed out due to horrible traffic, clueless passengers, etc.
2/8/2022 10:19 AM
72 I STILL want the #5 bus to b restored to its former schedule 2/8/2022 8:33 AM
73 Excellent changes as long as it is easier to get tap cards and provide free rides in case a
person does not have it available
2/8/2022 6:03 AM
74 Very fair across the board 2/8/2022 3:40 AM
75 Wonderful plans for community and for us ,big blue riders 2/7/2022 11:18 PM
76 Encourage use of tap card but do not eliminate cash option. Thank you.2/7/2022 11:14 PM
77 I believe the changes are good and agree the electronic are media is better. But the process to
convert needs to be more clear, less abrupt and equitable in addressing long term customers.
Most of the other transit agencies I have dealt with provided long lead times and better options
in the electronic conversion process. BBB should strive to be among them.
2/7/2022 10:48 PM
78 In favor of anything that promotes more ridership 2/7/2022 10:07 PM
79 The changes sound all very positive. I hope they are based on good research and data and will
help people who need it most.
2/7/2022 10:01 PM
80 BBB should consider tickets for dogs ( like in European buses dogs has had a ride if they have
a muzzle and they are on the leash) ticket price should be 50% of regular fare.
2/7/2022 9:49 PM
81 Definitely lower fares. Get the tap vendors up like on MANCHESTER AND SEPULVEDA, you
know, places that are very busy with BBB riders and this could work. I am a native Angeleno
and I grew up on the Westside and have been in my community for over 30 years. I recently
gave up owning a car because I've been able to rely more on the BBB and other local
Westside bus lines for travel and i find them far more convenient and less of a hassle than
driving. I am even riding my bike more for transportation. I predict over the next 5 to 10 years
you will see this large urban metropolis population change when it comes to getting around and
we'll see more people taking public transportation and utilizing bike lanes. It is very important
that you work with other local bus lines, like Culver City Bus and METRO to optimize all of the
major transportation changes that are happening around the city and especially on the
westside. That will make more people want to ride. BTW, i really do enjoy the frequency of Line
3.. PLEASE DO NOT CHANGE IT BUT INSTEAD ADD MORE RAPID BUSES.Thanks
2/7/2022 9:20 PM
82 Thank you for taking the time to listen to the public.2/7/2022 9:15 PM
83 I don’t care about the fare, but the BBB has large problems as a transit bus. The service is not
nearly on time as it should be. And some busses never appear. Worst of all, there is no reason
to take the bus if you have a car. The entire purpose of transit is so that people don’t drive. But
if the bus is worse than the car then it will always be a failure. The bus needs to have more
and faster routes, always be on time, have dedicated bus lanes, dedicated bus signals, and
overall make itself appealing to car riders.
2/7/2022 6:57 PM
84 Don’t feel totally comfortable until more research on how it affects those without credit/debit
cards, phones with regular access to data, and/or tap cards
2/7/2022 4:09 PM
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85 I am disabled, on crutches, and it toook me a lot of pain to go from my home, to Santa Monica
office, to get tap CD to top up; cost me more $ to take a cab, think you are going to grow old
too...wont be easy.Need to reduce prices b/c of impact of pandemic on people s finances.
2/7/2022 3:01 PM
86 This system of contactless payments discriminated against homeless and lower income
individuals who don’t have the means to manage a wireless account. While contactless
payments are more convenient and should still be used physical cash should still be accepted.
2/7/2022 2:49 PM
87 Seriously, drivers need to not allow passengers who abuse not paying. I'm speaking of chronic
abusers. And please get people off the bus who are drinking, using drugs, urinating,
threatening other passengers, vomiting, not wearing a mask off the bus. Especially if the did
not pay.
2/7/2022 2:39 PM
88 Public transit should be as accessible as possible, especially for lower income + other
communities where fares may be difficult or a larger burden to acquire.
2/7/2022 2:25 PM
89 I think the proposed fare changes are a step in the right direction and I appreciate the efforts of
the BBB team working on these proposals.
2/7/2022 2:16 PM
90 Cash should still be accepted 2/7/2022 1:57 PM
91 If you mean digital card from your phone then no I do not support that yet. We are not ready for
that.
2/7/2022 1:56 PM
92 Go fareless for fuck’s sake.2/7/2022 1:22 PM
93 BBB is a very fine transit system. Thank you for operating it and being concerned with your
passengers’ comfort and convenience.
2/7/2022 1:19 PM
94 I would love for Metro and BBB especially to cancel the transfer fee. When I commute every
day from bbb to the train, and back, and get charged the couple cents more it’s just a bit
frusterating. Hoping there is no transfer fee moving forward since the walk (to not need to ride
BBB) is a little long
2/7/2022 1:13 PM
95 Keep fares low to encourage ridership, it's good for the environment and even better for the
workers that LA can't live or function without.
2/7/2022 1:12 PM
96 I a very supportive of most the changes. The main change I look forward to is the potentially
reduction of bus fares.
2/7/2022 1:07 PM
97 I have a lot to address but I feel this survey is too short and I also feel that my opinion
wouldn’t really matter or make a change that you guys are going to do what you guys feels is
best for the business
2/7/2022 12:47 PM
98 Dump the pass system. It’s ridiculous. The IS economy is a CASH economy 2/7/2022 12:45 PM
99 Some riders can only afford to pay in coins at a time, and they may not be able to afford the
initial TAP card purchase fee!
2/7/2022 12:43 PM
100 BBB is a public service and must be available to all. Taking away the cash payment option is
undemocratic and seems to me extremely unAmerican.
2/7/2022 12:41 PM
101 I use UCLA rates and have to purchase at campus which is inconvenient but also means that
most changes suggested don’t affect me. I support what makes sense to you.
2/7/2022 12:34 PM
102 I like the cleanliness of the buses 2/7/2022 12:27 PM
103 Somewhat favorable for the contactless change. Very favorable for the fare reductions.
Extremely favorable to the Metro product acceptance.
2/7/2022 12:26 PM
104 I have been utilizing BBB transit since 2010. I have had great experiences. With only two
incidents of problems. My request it to allow rapids the option to stop at LMU, to ease travel
for students and faculty. This would balance the scales of fairness between Santa Monica
College and Loyola Marymount University. All college students deserve the same level of
access.
2/7/2022 12:16 PM
105 Often when TAP cards are tapped, they don’t register and need to be tapped again, sometimes
twice more. How is this time any different from the time it takes to put in a dollar bill and
coins? I don’t support fully contactless payments.
2/7/2022 12:10 PM
106 Let your drivers take cash and coins.2/7/2022 12:03 PM
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107 Changes for fare is OK what is NOT OK is for drivers to take in HOMELESS people who are
bringing BIG BULKY STINKY PERSONAL STUFF inside the bus where the rest of the working
passengers just want to take a quick nap coming from a stressful and tiring job to get home
fast and some moments of sleep.
2/7/2022 11:52 AM
108 Transit machines at major bus stops would be excellent 2/7/2022 11:51 AM
109 We need more buses! Every ten minutes! #5 needs more buses to ride to New Roads school
in the am. 6:30 and on
2/7/2022 11:48 AM
110 All should be free 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
111 Make the ez pass less expensive 2/7/2022 11:36 AM
112 Bus should be free for youth. Bus needs to be funded and move to electrification so stop
reducing revenue by cutting fares.bus drivers need to slow down, they go way too fast on city
streets.
2/7/2022 11:36 AM
113 cash payments slow down bus routes 2/7/2022 11:27 AM
114 I like the proposed changes!2/7/2022 11:26 AM
115 Thank you for making a change to help the community.2/7/2022 11:23 AM
116 Thank you for being more inclusive and careful of the obstacles people face in order to
purchase bus rides. More work can always be done, but this is a great step in the right
direction. It would be great to add discounts for students through the app- UCLA students in
particular do not get passes from the school, while other CSU and community colleges do.
2/7/2022 11:22 AM
117 I think these changes will help a lot 2/7/2022 11:18 AM
118 I use the BBB to work in downtown LA. I want to feel safe. I don’t want mentally ill or
homeless people with hygiene issues in the bus. Please don’t accept people who can’t pay the
fare.
2/7/2022 11:14 AM
119 Santa Monica Big Blue has become more of an elite-ist service. Sure it saves time (yours) &
money (big savings on staff). Wake up Big Blue, we are not all rich & famous here. Thank you
for your consideration
2/7/2022 11:12 AM
120 I already have spoken up. I use busses a lot. My complaint essentially is the waiting at most
spots are without a weather cover over head. Or some form of wind protection
2/7/2022 11:12 AM
121 Since it sounds like contactless fare will reduce the cost of rides, I can’t argue with this being
the more accessible option. However, during this transition, please help vulnerable riders
transition. I remember when the downtown Santa Monica metro station opened up, they had
employees sitting out at tables instructing new riders and giving out free tap cards for a couple
of weeks. I think Big Blue Bus should try something similar! Even consider connecting directly
with retirement homes and homeless shelters.
2/7/2022 11:11 AM
122 Biggest thing is tap machines and phones don’t always work. The transit app has been really
hit or miss lately. It takes to load that it never did before. So drivers have to be flexible, it can’t
be just a few nice people. There’s a driver that gets pissed if your pass is loading. I don’t
actually activate till the driver pulls over. I’ve activated before and it’s timed out before next
bus came. Or like the comment I made before when a bus that said 4 min, then 28min then 48
min. I ended up walking. So it makes me anxious not knowing if the app is going to work, if it
does that it will activate fast. It seems to be getting worse. I haven’t had any problems with the
transit app until @6 months ago same phone and provider.
2/7/2022 11:09 AM
123 This will help with the covid restrictions and if anyone tries to pay with cash unknowing the fare
changes they can always get a courtesy ride
2/7/2022 11:06 AM
124 Going cashless and contactless would be helpful in speeding up service.2/7/2022 11:05 AM
125 It is important to give reasonable prices for those taking the Big Blue Bus, because those who
do use it are taking the bus for economic reasons. Let’s not make it harder for those who just
are trying to survive and get to point A to point B
2/7/2022 11:03 AM
126 Anything that's helps seniors the disabled and kids is Positive for this city 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
127 Stop offering free rides!!....it's unfair for those that do pay a fare!2/7/2022 10:57 AM
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128 Just pay your drivers a fair wage and stop overcharging for the bus. We got people sitting in a
committee whenever it’s convenient to them, making salary from local taxes to pretend to
make changes. My god how do you sleep at night
2/7/2022 10:57 AM
129 I have always had to explain to drivers -most understanding that my payment did not load
automatically when I paid on the Tap website. Some said they knew nothing about that. Most
said that’s fine but it has made rising the blue bus unpredictable for me. Knowing I could load
up easily at more places makes a difference. I also know that it is not convenient for older
people to have to walk to metro stations to get their tap cards and as I said earlier the only
other places that had them 7 11 always ran out or could not load money because I didn’t have
the right tap card which I am not sure why that was since I had bought the card recently from
the metro station.
2/7/2022 10:56 AM
130 I appreciate the effort Big Blue Bus is making to address fares.2/7/2022 10:55 AM
131 As simeone at 67 who does volunteer work in Santa Monica but can not drive in twilight/dark
this allows me to stay mobile and give back to the community
2/7/2022 10:54 AM
132 I’m glad you are considering making some changes especially with those who are students,
seniors, etc. :)
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
133 I wish the BBB and Metro would do more outreach to my social segment (middle-class and
above retirees with cars). This is the single group that would be easiest to get off the roads.
They complain endlessly about the costs and dearth of parking and about traffic. And they
have more time than any segment: these are the people who can afford to add 25% to 40% to
their travel times.I feel like they don't yet understand all the innovations that have been made
to improve public transportation. The answer is basic classes with outings from senior centers
and places where they take classes and that are advertised through neighborhood councils and
neighborhood watches. Contact me if you want to pick my brain. (310) 836-8482
2/7/2022 10:51 AM
134 Consider permanently removing fares as it is only a fraction of operating costs. Removing fare
enforcement and TAP operating cost can offset some of the lost revenue.
2/7/2022 10:50 AM
135 Drop the fare all together promoteriding for the environment and make it frreeeeeeeee 2/7/2022 10:49 AM
136 I would love it if there is a way I can pay for 2+ riders with my contactless tap card.2/7/2022 10:49 AM
137 Please make some efforts to get the bums and criminals off the buses. It is an insult to fare-
paying customers that you make riding the bus a risk to health and safety.
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
138 I love the BBB. It is the single best bus line in the whole of LA. Anything that can be done to
streamline its use anc service has my vote!
2/7/2022 10:47 AM
139 I would like it if bus drivers of the big blue bus see each other at intersections IE the 14 and 7
is the 14 + 2 when at least wait for the Riders disembarking the bus to get over there to them
to make a connection transfer even if it takes a minute you guys are always ahead of schedule
anyway sometimes I see this most times I don't it's really unfair to the working class that want
to use your buses. Anyway thanks for letting this survey happen been wanting to voice my
opinion and I would make it also clear that there's going to be a lot of delays on Bundy.
2/7/2022 10:45 AM
140 Changing to contactless payment would make Big Blue Bus less accessible, so there would
need to be sufficient locations to purchase the new payment options using cash.
2/7/2022 10:44 AM
141 I actually need some information about total funding of the bus company and what affects that
in order to make a reasoned comment. In other words I don’t have enough information and this
is superficial.
2/7/2022 10:43 AM
142 As someone who has used the bbb for 45 years, I can tell you that your bureaucratic
tendencies hurt the people you’re supposed to serve. No one I know thinks the people making
decisions use the system so they have no clue what they are talking about
2/7/2022 10:42 AM
143 consider going to no cost/free rides, more people would use it. I would take more short rides if
it were free. (and not use my car).
2/7/2022 10:41 AM
144 The cheaper the better. Good stuff bbb 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
145 I understand that contactless payment streamlines boarding and reduces engine operating
hours, but cash is still a nice option in the event that you don’t have a TAP card on hand or it’s
not loaded. I must also assume it’s confusing for tourists to be not be allowed to use cash,
2/7/2022 10:41 AM
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and they may also have no idea where to get a TAP card if they’re in some random spot in
town.
146 I use Big Blue Bus infrequently, when I go into that area: eliminating paying cash is
significantly more problematic: having to track down where to obtain a senior BBB TAP card,
how/where to load it, how long the fare on the card remains valid, et al.
2/7/2022 10:41 AM
147 I love the contactless BBB Token transit app and have been using it for years now. It’s easy to
use and recharging your card is also easy. I would love to keep using it :)
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
148 These are great changes, love BBB Been riding for 15 years 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
149 We should do everything possible to incentivize more people to use mass transit in Santa
Monica and Los Angeles county.
2/7/2022 10:40 AM
150 Good idea as long as availability of TAP PURCHASE in Convenient venues.2/7/2022 10:40 AM
151 No free rides 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
152 Some bus drivers are very aggressive and rude to patrons who don’t have fare, if it’s policy to
allow riders on even if they don’t have fare why are bus drivers constantly yelling, belittling,
and kicking people off? I’ve been riding BBB for almost 6 years and this happen all too often.
Please address this issue l
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
153 As I've said in earlier questions, moving to cashless/contactless fare is a good idea only if you
are making it easy to get a TAP card with cash. Right now it is difficult to get a card to use if
you do not have one already.
2/7/2022 10:38 AM
154 I am a new user and have only ever experienced the contactless payment and I think it works
great.
2/7/2022 10:37 AM
155 Make the system worth with contactless credit-debit cards as well 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
156 Don't touch the senior citizen program 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
157 Generally good changes, I’d like to see tap be easier to obtain and load. Strongly dislike the
idea to let people ride free as the buses become a mobile homeless shelter and is a disservice
to everyone else who pays to ride the service
2/7/2022 10:36 AM
158 Fix your problem with #9. Not enough buses from Pacific Palisades to SM to support BOTH
school kids and others. #9 passes me REGULARLY at Chataqua. Not good v
2/7/2022 10:35 AM
159 Not being able to pay cash on board will discourage tourists/ passengers from other cities 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
160 Your BBB route #8 is treated like an adopted child used only for government benefits.
Schedule fluctuates every day and usually skips a stop time during the morning.
2/7/2022 10:35 AM
161 I’m very happy with the proposed changes!2/7/2022 10:34 AM
162 nothing 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
163 Try to lower fares. Give people the option of paying on board too. Some people have
limitations to get a tap card and to don't have smart phones. They should be able to pay cash.
2/7/2022 10:34 AM
164 Having an option to purchase a limited number of tap cards on board the bus itself, could help
people who don't already have one
2/7/2022 10:33 AM
165 Make transit free, it’s a municipal service it shouldn’t need to make revenue to exist. Raise
taxes on wealthy to pay for it
2/7/2022 10:33 AM
166 The additional vending locations should be scrapped riders under 17 should be free (school age
m-f) riders over 65 should be free
2/7/2022 10:33 AM
167 Love it! As a Santa Monica resident, I love the Big Blue Bus.2/7/2022 10:32 AM
168 Fare should be free for all 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
169 None 2/7/2022 10:30 AM
170 The bus should be completely free but lowering prices is a step in the right direction 2/6/2022 9:55 PM
171 This survey should be emailed to every SM resident. I found it buried in a community 2/5/2022 7:28 AM
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newsletter
172 ok 2/3/2022 8:00 PM
173 As with the BBB bus stop design, this focus on cash fares doesn't seem to get at the real
issue, which is that the BBB is uncomfortable and often scary to ride. I used to ride the bus
regularly to work but went back to driving (pre-pandemic) because the buses were late,
overcrowded, or both. Also, given the service level, it doesn't make sense from a price point
either. It's often cheaper and faster to drive myself where I'm going, and I feel a lot safer as
well. Banning cash fares is a bad idea, I encourage the BBB to work on offering more routes,
cheaper fares, and shelter at bus stops.
2/3/2022 7:46 AM
174 If these fare changes encourage more people to stop driving cars, I'm all for it.2/2/2022 9:41 PM
175 There's tons of people in our city who need to ride the bus and can only use cash. Most of
them really, really don't have the time to run around the city on foot searching for ticket
machines. And they would need to do this not just to buy the tap card, but every single time
afterwards when they need to put a few more dollars on the card, because many people are
poor and only have a few dollars in cash at a time to pay for transit. This is ridiculous that
you've been making people do this already, especially during the pandemic for crying out loud.
And you're proposing making this permanent??? You've decided this works great because you
outright forced everybody to use this "contactless" system by just not leaving any other choice
for how to ride your buses??? That is sheer nonsense. It is hugely biased to make this
conclusion from a trial program run this way. And you just decided to cancel all the unused
paper tickets anyone ever bought, after you took their money??? For what purpose? How does
this help anyone??? This all sends a really nasty message to many of your current and former
customers.
2/2/2022 4:44 PM
176 Contactless is good more access to cards is important. BBB needs a tap card 2/2/2022 10:16 AM
177 Will there va a mobile ticket option available? Buy using dmartphone?2/2/2022 1:01 AM
178 WE WANT FREE TRANSIT AND BUS LANES 2/1/2022 10:22 AM
179 I think the proposed fare change is excellent and TAP card should be the only payment
method on board.
2/1/2022 7:34 AM
180 The need to lower the easy pass to 40 dollars so people can more ride on the bus 2/1/2022 12:49 AM
181 You are not truthful about having had success with this contactless fare trial program; you
have just been forcing every single person to switch to contactless by giving them no other
choice whatsoever if they want to be able to ride a bus in and around most of Santa Monica.
That doesn't mean it was easier for your passengers, or that it didn't create enormous
problems for some of them, or didn't cost them more money in various ways, or that you didn't
lose a bunch of customers whose circumstances made them unable to adapt to your system.
This is just further disadvantaging the already low-income and disadvantaged populations in
our community and pushing them even more out of our society as a whole by making their
lives ever more difficult. You are also outright stealing money from people by rapidly and
systematically making every possible change to ensure that those who bought your previously
valid forms of fare lose every penny of that value by arbitrarily and quickly invalidating all of
these passes and tokens and making them completely worthless. But you've only cared about
your own self-interest, and how all this was benefiting your agency, earning you more money
and making YOUR lives easier. Well, you are not actually here for the purpose of serving your
own self-interest; you are a city-run agency here to serve the benefit of the residents and make
THEIR lives better. Your customers - remember them???
1/31/2022 10:17 PM
182 LA needs to become less reliant on vehicles and use public transportation more. Making the
bus easy and accessible is the best way to encourage that. It doesn't have to be first class, it
just has to be better than the 405 at rush hour.
1/31/2022 9:55 PM
183 Cash is king 1/31/2022 8:01 PM
184 We need free bus rides in SM, like so many other California cities. Especially running back
and forth from the east side of SM to downtown and the beach. Laguna has a trolley, super
easy to get on and off and get around without a car. Santa Barbara as well! Ocean Park is
dead stopped in both directions during the summer, difficult for residents who have to work!
(and their work required a vehicle.)
1/31/2022 12:30 PM
185 I have lived in SM for 30 years. One of the things I considered when I moved here was the bus 1/31/2022 12:19 PM
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system. I made sure I got an apartment near a bus stop.Parking availability is scarce & fees
are very high, traffic is tight. I used to take the bus places so I didn't have to drive, or I would
walk places (shopping etc) then take the bus home. Since you have don't away with cash fares
I have not taken the bus AT ALL. My car is old & in need of repairs I try to dive it as little as
possible but th ebus is no longet an option!! BRING BACK CASH FARES & BE DONE WITH
THE SILLY PASSES!
186 PLEASE have token transit UPDATE their app so its more user friendly and more available to
scan fast. tap cards take 1 sec. Tomen transit can take up to 14 seconds to scan and this
holds the line and is disruptive to the bus drivers. most drivers ive talked to agree. Ive reached
out to token transit about 20 times about the app not scanning or taking way too long to scan.
they also need to implenment a watch app as what happens if our phones die?
1/31/2022 11:29 AM
187 Public transit should be free for everyone, always.1/31/2022 10:55 AM
188 Promote bus usage. Hope bus remains clean and safe. Thank you BBB !1/30/2022 9:41 PM
189 accept apple pay or goggle payments on board 1/29/2022 6:40 PM
190 Just pick something and stick to it please stop all this constant changes it’s confusing
everyone
1/28/2022 7:50 PM
191 Is the seniors reloadable tap card fare remaining at 40 cents or going to 50 cents? I didn't see
that addressed.
1/28/2022 2:12 PM
192 More safety features, like security guards, would be nice!1/28/2022 1:53 PM
193 1. Provide a better system to purchase a ticket! Make it easier for people to find and purchase
a ticket. 2. Spend more money on cleaning the busses! 3. Update the ticket machines on the
BB buses, so that they read the virtual ticket quickly.
1/28/2022 1:17 PM
194 Please heed my thoughts. We should be welcoming people, not making life more difficult. I
have never seen someone paying cash holding up the bus for more than a few seconds. So
what?
1/28/2022 11:04 AM
195 Pretty good suggestions, thank you for your hard work! However, please also consider allowing
cash fares while encouraging contactless fare payment. Finally, it is most equitable to make
the fare payment policy clear: Is it a choice to pay, or a requirement to pay? Courtesy rides for
those without TAP cards, because cash is not allowed makes the fare payment policy unclear.
1/27/2022 11:43 PM
196 Bring back cash for riding buses.1/27/2022 8:20 PM
197 I think they need to reduce the prices for annual pass and 30 day 1/27/2022 7:51 PM
198 Thank you for wanting to improve public transportation. In Santa Monica, 2/3 of greenhouse
gas emmissions come from transportation. If Big Blue Bus can contribute to reducing that it
would be amazing. The mire people on your buses the fewer in individual cars!
1/27/2022 5:42 PM
199 Consider all door boarding on the Rapid routes. To be honest, it’s a bit of a shocker that the
agency is even considering “courtesy” rides if people don’t have TAP or mobile tickets but still
forces everyone to board on the same door. The Rapid 7 can be a perfect pilot line since it
serves both SMC, SaMoHi and UCLA students.
1/27/2022 5:10 PM
200 I will Still Hopefully Join “In-Person” the Big Blue Bus Proposal on New Fairs on Thursday,
February 10th (2022) @ 5:30pm.
1/27/2022 4:19 PM
201 See comments about 10 pass tickets and support for ways for people to purchase fares. I live
in Santa Monica, have a Tap card and ride the BBB.
1/27/2022 3:46 PM
202 It's very positive to know big blue bus is trying to be more efficient, safer and taking action to
encourage more people to ride bus instead of driving, less cars on road and best for
environment.
1/27/2022 2:23 PM
203 The trip designator machines at many bus stops to not work. The whole system seems to be
non-functioning. Either fix them or remove them entirely.
1/27/2022 1:44 PM
204 Contactless fare puts certain people at a disadvantage such as those who do not have a smart
phone or internet, people who have difficulties getting to TAP card purchase sites, and people
who very rarely ride the bus.
1/27/2022 1:29 PM
205 You guys should continue to accept cash on board, but charge the fare at a higher price. The 1/27/2022 9:22 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1508 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
154 / 175
San Francisco Muni charges $2.50 when using Clipper Card, Muni Mobile & $3 cash on board.
You guys should also look into accepting contactless credit/ debit cards on board buses too
and install a price cap feature when passengers pay up to a certain amount in 1 way fares, the
Tap Card reader will stop deducting money and become a daypass. London, UK has this
feature.
206 Time saved at each stop using the contact-less system is helpful, but lowering the baseline
fare rate (other than for financial aid) will have the opposite of the desired effect in the long run.
1/27/2022 8:54 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1509 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
155 / 175
22.07%141
10.49%67
54.15%346
14.55%93
1.88%12
7.20%46
Q24 Select the group(s) that best describe you. (select all that apply)
Answered: 639 Skipped: 76
Total Respondents: 639
#OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)DATE
1 Persian 2/16/2022 9:35 PM
2 European 2/15/2022 11:42 AM
3 This surgery was too darn long!2/14/2022 6:18 PM
4 Armenian 2/14/2022 3:52 PM
5 Persian.2/14/2022 2:50 PM
6 Mediterranean 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
7 Native Caribbean 2/14/2022 11:49 AM
8 Human 2/14/2022 10:54 AM
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Hispanic /
Latino / Latinx
Black /
African...
White /
Caucasian
Asian / Asian
American /...
Native American
Other (please
specify)
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Hispanic / Latino / Latinx
Black / African American
White / Caucasian
Asian / Asian American / Pacific Islander
Native American
Other (please specify)
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1510 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
156 / 175
9 Always race,and how much you make???2/14/2022 10:54 AM
10 Latino 2/10/2022 4:48 PM
11 Italian American 2/10/2022 12:10 AM
12 Italian 2/9/2022 11:43 PM
13 Human 2/9/2022 6:23 PM
14 Human 2/9/2022 5:47 PM
15 Jewish 2/9/2022 4:45 PM
16 I would be defined as white-presenting but I resent this question as it never allows for me to be
Jewish, which I believe to be a legitimate racial group.
2/9/2022 4:28 PM
17 Asian / White 2/9/2022 2:14 PM
18 Canadian 2/8/2022 6:08 PM
19 Human Being 2/8/2022 12:50 PM
20 Other 2/8/2022 12:41 AM
21 Roma 2/7/2022 9:49 PM
22 Central American/Caribbean 2/7/2022 9:22 PM
23 Mixed 2/7/2022 9:15 PM
24 Mmmmm 2/7/2022 6:23 PM
25 None of your business 2/7/2022 1:52 PM
26 Mediterranean Basin 2/7/2022 1:20 PM
27 N/A 2/7/2022 1:07 PM
28 Ashkenazi 2/7/2022 12:55 PM
29 Consumer 2/7/2022 12:47 PM
30 Non Hispanic Human 2/7/2022 12:17 PM
31 Sane!2/7/2022 11:13 AM
32 Senior with school age grandkids 2/7/2022 11:12 AM
33 Oppressed Taxpayer 2/7/2022 11:09 AM
34 DTS 2/7/2022 10:52 AM
35 Irrelevant bad question 2/7/2022 10:50 AM
36 Human 2/7/2022 10:46 AM
37 East Indian 2/7/2022 10:44 AM
38 Decline to state 2/7/2022 10:44 AM
39 I’m a human being raised in America in an urban environment.2/7/2022 10:43 AM
40 NA 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
41 Mixed 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
42 mixed race 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
43 Creole 1/27/2022 10:09 PM
44 Decline to state 1/27/2022 3:46 PM
45 Human 1/27/2022 1:34 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1511 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
157 / 175
46 Mixed 1/27/2022 1:11 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1512 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
158 / 175
20.68%134
12.35%80
11.57%75
12.19%79
8.95%58
15.28%99
18.98%123
Q25 What is your annual household income?
Answered: 648 Skipped: 67
TOTAL 648
0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%100%
Less than
$25,000
$25,000 –
$34,999
$35,000 –
$49,999
$50,000 –
$74,999
$75,000 –
$99,999
More than
$100,000
Decline to
state
ANSWER CHOICES RESPONSES
Less than $25,000
$25,000 – $34,999
$35,000 – $49,999
$50,000 – $74,999
$75,000 – $99,999
More than $100,000
Decline to state
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1513 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
159 / 175
Q26 What is your home zip code?
Answered: 604 Skipped: 111
#RESPONSES DATE
1 90403 2/17/2022 2:17 PM
2 90291 2/17/2022 10:09 AM
3 90025 2/17/2022 10:07 AM
4 90405 2/17/2022 8:17 AM
5 90025 2/17/2022 8:08 AM
6 90403 2/17/2022 6:34 AM
7 90034 2/16/2022 9:35 PM
8 90291 2/16/2022 5:54 PM
9 90064 2/16/2022 5:01 PM
10 90404 2/16/2022 4:49 PM
11 90401-3256 2/16/2022 3:50 PM
12 90405 2/16/2022 2:22 PM
13 90403 2/16/2022 3:13 AM
14 90025 2/15/2022 8:20 PM
15 90680 2/15/2022 8:06 PM
16 90405 2/15/2022 5:47 PM
17 90404 2/15/2022 4:38 PM
18 90405 2/15/2022 3:45 PM
19 90403 2/15/2022 1:12 PM
20 90008 2/15/2022 11:58 AM
21 91355 2/15/2022 11:42 AM
22 90405 2/15/2022 9:55 AM
23 90404 2/15/2022 7:59 AM
24 90291 2/15/2022 7:57 AM
25 90403 2/15/2022 5:10 AM
26 90602 2/15/2022 2:58 AM
27 90004 2/15/2022 2:15 AM
28 90405 2/14/2022 11:32 PM
29 90210 2/14/2022 11:26 PM
30 90402 2/14/2022 10:58 PM
31 90401 2/14/2022 9:05 PM
32 90405 2/14/2022 8:31 PM
33 90034 2/14/2022 7:23 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1514 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
160 / 175
34 90291 2/14/2022 7:17 PM
35 90405 2/14/2022 7:17 PM
36 90008 2/14/2022 6:58 PM
37 90272 2/14/2022 5:44 PM
38 90052 2/14/2022 5:41 PM
39 90404 2/14/2022 5:39 PM
40 90401 2/14/2022 5:12 PM
41 90404 2/14/2022 4:52 PM
42 91304 2/14/2022 4:45 PM
43 90025 2/14/2022 4:29 PM
44 90405 2/14/2022 4:13 PM
45 90403 2/14/2022 4:05 PM
46 90232 2/14/2022 3:52 PM
47 90066 2/14/2022 3:24 PM
48 90064 2/14/2022 3:06 PM
49 90035 2/14/2022 2:50 PM
50 90034 2/14/2022 2:49 PM
51 90405 2/14/2022 2:37 PM
52 90403 2/14/2022 2:32 PM
53 90405 2/14/2022 2:13 PM
54 90405 2/14/2022 2:10 PM
55 90025 2/14/2022 2:00 PM
56 90034 2/14/2022 1:34 PM
57 90403 2/14/2022 1:33 PM
58 90064 2/14/2022 1:23 PM
59 90066 2/14/2022 1:21 PM
60 90404 2/14/2022 1:07 PM
61 90404 2/14/2022 1:04 PM
62 90272 2/14/2022 12:58 PM
63 90404 2/14/2022 12:46 PM
64 90404 2/14/2022 12:35 PM
65 90291 2/14/2022 12:31 PM
66 90405 2/14/2022 12:29 PM
67 90403 2/14/2022 12:19 PM
68 90005 2/14/2022 12:15 PM
69 90064 2/14/2022 12:12 PM
70 92130 2/14/2022 12:09 PM
71 90402 2/14/2022 12:08 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1515 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
161 / 175
72 90049 2/14/2022 12:07 PM
73 90011 2/14/2022 12:06 PM
74 90401 2/14/2022 11:55 AM
75 90035 2/14/2022 11:49 AM
76 90712 2/14/2022 11:15 AM
77 90291 2/14/2022 11:15 AM
78 90405 2/14/2022 11:10 AM
79 90064 2/14/2022 10:58 AM
80 90066 2/14/2022 10:54 AM
81 90012 2/14/2022 10:54 AM
82 90018 2/14/2022 10:54 AM
83 90025 2/14/2022 10:49 AM
84 90034 2/14/2022 10:44 AM
85 90404 2/14/2022 10:41 AM
86 90210 2/14/2022 10:37 AM
87 90064 2/14/2022 10:35 AM
88 90025 2/14/2022 10:33 AM
89 90025 2/14/2022 10:33 AM
90 90403 2/14/2022 10:31 AM
91 90049. We need more buses that run longer hours 2/14/2022 10:31 AM
92 90404 2/14/2022 10:30 AM
93 90405 2/14/2022 10:29 AM
94 90403 2/14/2022 10:25 AM
95 90049 2/14/2022 10:21 AM
96 90062 2/14/2022 10:19 AM
97 90290 2/14/2022 10:18 AM
98 90025 2/14/2022 10:13 AM
99 90405 2/14/2022 10:11 AM
100 90230 2/14/2022 10:10 AM
101 90034 2/14/2022 10:09 AM
102 90004 2/14/2022 7:03 AM
103 90001 2/13/2022 3:53 PM
104 90404 2/13/2022 11:21 AM
105 90402 2/13/2022 9:46 AM
106 90403 2/12/2022 10:37 PM
107 90404 2/12/2022 4:29 PM
108 90007 2/12/2022 11:05 AM
109 90405 2/11/2022 3:54 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1516 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
162 / 175
110 90012 2/11/2022 2:33 PM
111 90291 2/11/2022 11:15 AM
112 90403 2/11/2022 7:46 AM
113 90019 2/11/2022 1:00 AM
114 90025 2/10/2022 10:07 PM
115 90403 2/10/2022 9:52 PM
116 90025 2/10/2022 9:07 PM
117 90404 2/10/2022 9:01 PM
118 90024 2/10/2022 8:44 PM
119 90405 2/10/2022 8:02 PM
120 90025 2/10/2022 6:42 PM
121 90291 2/10/2022 5:37 PM
122 90019 2/10/2022 4:48 PM
123 90401 2/10/2022 4:17 PM
124 90403 2/10/2022 2:30 PM
125 90405 2/10/2022 2:14 PM
126 90404 2/10/2022 2:13 PM
127 90405 2/10/2022 2:09 PM
128 90403 2/10/2022 11:37 AM
129 90291 2/10/2022 8:46 AM
130 90064 2/10/2022 7:39 AM
131 90405 2/10/2022 7:35 AM
132 90404 2/10/2022 7:08 AM
133 91754 2/10/2022 3:26 AM
134 90403 2/10/2022 12:10 AM
135 90405 2/9/2022 11:46 PM
136 90401 2/9/2022 11:43 PM
137 90405 2/9/2022 11:30 PM
138 90405 2/9/2022 10:31 PM
139 90405 2/9/2022 10:07 PM
140 90405 2/9/2022 10:05 PM
141 90402 2/9/2022 10:03 PM
142 90404 2/9/2022 8:11 PM
143 90405 2/9/2022 8:01 PM
144 90049 2/9/2022 7:55 PM
145 90404 2/9/2022 6:26 PM
146 Decline to state.2/9/2022 6:23 PM
147 80405 2/9/2022 6:12 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1517 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
163 / 175
148 90401 2/9/2022 5:47 PM
149 90403 2/9/2022 5:37 PM
150 90404 2/9/2022 5:18 PM
151 90404 2/9/2022 5:18 PM
152 90405 2/9/2022 4:49 PM
153 90402 2/9/2022 4:45 PM
154 90403 2/9/2022 4:40 PM
155 91406 2/9/2022 4:28 PM
156 90404 2/9/2022 4:26 PM
157 90232 2/9/2022 4:15 PM
158 non SM 2/9/2022 2:14 PM
159 91403 2/9/2022 1:44 PM
160 90723 2/9/2022 1:24 PM
161 90405 2/9/2022 12:42 PM
162 95519 2/9/2022 12:31 PM
163 90404 2/9/2022 11:23 AM
164 90025 2/9/2022 10:27 AM
165 90404 2/9/2022 10:05 AM
166 90025 2/9/2022 9:58 AM
167 90404 2/9/2022 9:02 AM
168 90405 2/9/2022 8:46 AM
169 90403 2/9/2022 8:13 AM
170 90011 2/9/2022 8:11 AM
171 90401 2/9/2022 8:08 AM
172 90405 2/9/2022 8:08 AM
173 90403 2/9/2022 7:47 AM
174 90064 2/8/2022 11:40 PM
175 90404 2/8/2022 8:19 PM
176 90292 2/8/2022 6:08 PM
177 90401 2/8/2022 2:53 PM
178 90810 2/8/2022 2:11 PM
179 90405 2/8/2022 2:11 PM
180 90291 2/8/2022 1:54 PM
181 90291 2/8/2022 12:50 PM
182 90405 2/8/2022 11:55 AM
183 90064 2/8/2022 10:55 AM
184 90405 2/8/2022 10:20 AM
185 90025 2/8/2022 8:33 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1518 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
164 / 175
186 90401 2/8/2022 8:22 AM
187 90403 2/8/2022 6:04 AM
188 90064 2/8/2022 4:53 AM
189 90043 2/8/2022 3:41 AM
190 90401 2/8/2022 12:41 AM
191 90034 2/7/2022 11:38 PM
192 90404 2/7/2022 11:19 PM
193 90046 2/7/2022 11:16 PM
194 90066 2/7/2022 10:56 PM
195 90402 2/7/2022 10:16 PM
196 90291 2/7/2022 10:08 PM
197 90405 2/7/2022 10:02 PM
198 90025 2/7/2022 10:01 PM
199 90404 2/7/2022 9:50 PM
200 90034 2/7/2022 9:49 PM
201 90017 2/7/2022 9:34 PM
202 90045 2/7/2022 9:22 PM
203 91506 2/7/2022 9:17 PM
204 90403 2/7/2022 9:15 PM
205 90405 2/7/2022 9:12 PM
206 90035 2/7/2022 8:51 PM
207 90404 2/7/2022 8:20 PM
208 90046 2/7/2022 8:09 PM
209 90401 2/7/2022 7:44 PM
210 90403 2/7/2022 6:58 PM
211 90291 2/7/2022 6:56 PM
212 90405 2/7/2022 6:53 PM
213 90291 2/7/2022 6:44 PM
214 90066 2/7/2022 6:40 PM
215 90402 2/7/2022 6:04 PM
216 90064 2/7/2022 5:27 PM
217 90403 2/7/2022 5:23 PM
218 90025 2/7/2022 5:17 PM
219 90029 2/7/2022 5:17 PM
220 90025 2/7/2022 5:10 PM
221 90304 2/7/2022 4:53 PM
222 90044 2/7/2022 4:23 PM
223 90024 2/7/2022 4:09 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1519 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
165 / 175
224 90024 2/7/2022 4:04 PM
225 90404 2/7/2022 3:22 PM
226 90024 2/7/2022 3:02 PM
227 90035 2/7/2022 2:57 PM
228 90035 2/7/2022 2:55 PM
229 90405 2/7/2022 2:52 PM
230 90405 2/7/2022 2:50 PM
231 90272 2/7/2022 2:49 PM
232 90212 2/7/2022 2:39 PM
233 90404 2/7/2022 2:35 PM
234 90048 2/7/2022 2:25 PM
235 90066 2/7/2022 2:18 PM
236 91504 2/7/2022 1:57 PM
237 90066 2/7/2022 1:56 PM
238 90403 2/7/2022 1:52 PM
239 90015 2/7/2022 1:51 PM
240 90066 2/7/2022 1:46 PM
241 90034 2/7/2022 1:41 PM
242 90404 2/7/2022 1:36 PM
243 90024 2/7/2022 1:34 PM
244 90272 2/7/2022 1:31 PM
245 90066 2/7/2022 1:22 PM
246 90405 2/7/2022 1:20 PM
247 90034 2/7/2022 1:17 PM
248 90291 2/7/2022 1:15 PM
249 90025 2/7/2022 1:13 PM
250 90015 2/7/2022 1:12 PM
251 90004 2/7/2022 1:07 PM
252 90066 2/7/2022 1:02 PM
253 90405 2/7/2022 1:01 PM
254 90404 2/7/2022 1:00 PM
255 90057 2/7/2022 1:00 PM
256 90027 2/7/2022 12:55 PM
257 90405 2/7/2022 12:49 PM
258 90019 2/7/2022 12:47 PM
259 90404 2/7/2022 12:46 PM
260 90064 2/7/2022 12:43 PM
261 90403 2/7/2022 12:41 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1520 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
166 / 175
262 90401 2/7/2022 12:40 PM
263 90405 2/7/2022 12:37 PM
264 90405 2/7/2022 12:35 PM
265 90025 2/7/2022 12:27 PM
266 90045 2/7/2022 12:26 PM
267 90034 2/7/2022 12:23 PM
268 90037 2/7/2022 12:20 PM
269 90025 2/7/2022 12:20 PM
270 90292 2/7/2022 12:17 PM
271 90405 2/7/2022 12:14 PM
272 90005 2/7/2022 12:10 PM
273 90025 2/7/2022 12:10 PM
274 90405 2/7/2022 12:08 PM
275 90405 2/7/2022 12:07 PM
276 90405 2/7/2022 12:03 PM
277 90064 2/7/2022 12:01 PM
278 90011 2/7/2022 12:00 PM
279 90049 2/7/2022 11:58 AM
280 90005 2/7/2022 11:57 AM
281 90025 2/7/2022 11:54 AM
282 90026 2/7/2022 11:53 AM
283 90025 2/7/2022 11:52 AM
284 90028 2/7/2022 11:51 AM
285 90401 2/7/2022 11:49 AM
286 90025 2/7/2022 11:42 AM
287 90291 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
288 90291 2/7/2022 11:40 AM
289 90025 2/7/2022 11:38 AM
290 90404 2/7/2022 11:37 AM
291 90405 2/7/2022 11:37 AM
292 90035 2/7/2022 11:36 AM
293 90046 2/7/2022 11:32 AM
294 90024 2/7/2022 11:27 AM
295 90405 2/7/2022 11:27 AM
296 90037 2/7/2022 11:25 AM
297 90006 2/7/2022 11:24 AM
298 90064 2/7/2022 11:22 AM
299 90024 2/7/2022 11:22 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1521 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
167 / 175
300 90404 2/7/2022 11:19 AM
301 90007 2/7/2022 11:19 AM
302 90025 2/7/2022 11:19 AM
303 90403 2/7/2022 11:15 AM
304 90402 2/7/2022 11:15 AM
305 90404 2/7/2022 11:13 AM
306 90401 2/7/2022 11:13 AM
307 90291 2/7/2022 11:13 AM
308 90404 2/7/2022 11:12 AM
309 90405 2/7/2022 11:11 AM
310 90403 2/7/2022 11:11 AM
311 90034 2/7/2022 11:10 AM
312 90405 2/7/2022 11:10 AM
313 90404 2/7/2022 11:10 AM
314 90404 2/7/2022 11:09 AM
315 90404 2/7/2022 11:08 AM
316 90016 2/7/2022 11:08 AM
317 90034 2/7/2022 11:07 AM
318 90036 2/7/2022 11:07 AM
319 90016 2/7/2022 11:07 AM
320 90034 2/7/2022 11:06 AM
321 90064 2/7/2022 11:06 AM
322 90291 2/7/2022 11:06 AM
323 94920 2/7/2022 11:05 AM
324 90404 2/7/2022 11:05 AM
325 90403 2/7/2022 11:05 AM
326 90024 2/7/2022 11:05 AM
327 90301 2/7/2022 11:03 AM
328 90034 2/7/2022 11:03 AM
329 90062 2/7/2022 11:03 AM
330 90025 2/7/2022 11:03 AM
331 90066 2/7/2022 11:02 AM
332 90025 2/7/2022 11:01 AM
333 90064 2/7/2022 11:01 AM
334 91403 2/7/2022 11:01 AM
335 90291 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
336 90404 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
337 90404 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1522 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
168 / 175
338 90025 2/7/2022 11:00 AM
339 90034 2/7/2022 10:59 AM
340 90025 2/7/2022 10:58 AM
341 90401 2/7/2022 10:58 AM
342 90404 2/7/2022 10:58 AM
343 90024 2/7/2022 10:57 AM
344 90404 2/7/2022 10:57 AM
345 90064 2/7/2022 10:57 AM
346 90292 2/7/2022 10:55 AM
347 90064 2/7/2022 10:54 AM
348 90503 2/7/2022 10:54 AM
349 90049 2/7/2022 10:53 AM
350 90272 2/7/2022 10:52 AM
351 91344 2/7/2022 10:51 AM
352 90018 2/7/2022 10:51 AM
353 90405 2/7/2022 10:51 AM
354 90024 2/7/2022 10:51 AM
355 90064 2/7/2022 10:51 AM
356 90404 2/7/2022 10:51 AM
357 90026 2/7/2022 10:50 AM
358 90291 2/7/2022 10:50 AM
359 90034 2/7/2022 10:50 AM
360 90403 2/7/2022 10:50 AM
361 90016 2/7/2022 10:50 AM
362 90025 2/7/2022 10:49 AM
363 90405 2/7/2022 10:49 AM
364 90094 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
365 90230 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
366 90405 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
367 90245 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
368 90004 2/7/2022 10:48 AM
369 90403 2/7/2022 10:47 AM
370 90230 2/7/2022 10:47 AM
371 90034 2/7/2022 10:46 AM
372 90066 2/7/2022 10:46 AM
373 90404 2/7/2022 10:46 AM
374 90405 2/7/2022 10:45 AM
375 90402 2/7/2022 10:45 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1523 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
169 / 175
376 90036 2/7/2022 10:45 AM
377 Venice 90291 2/7/2022 10:45 AM
378 90025 2/7/2022 10:44 AM
379 90405 2/7/2022 10:44 AM
380 90028-8685 2/7/2022 10:44 AM
381 90291 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
382 90405 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
383 90029 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
384 90019 2/7/2022 10:43 AM
385 90403 2/7/2022 10:42 AM
386 90808 2/7/2022 10:42 AM
387 90403 2/7/2022 10:42 AM
388 90405 2/7/2022 10:42 AM
389 90064 2/7/2022 10:42 AM
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391 90025 2/7/2022 10:42 AM
392 90029 2/7/2022 10:42 AM
393 90006 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
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395 90035 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
396 90403 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
397 90405 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
398 90247 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
399 90401 2/7/2022 10:41 AM
400 90066 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
401 90292 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
402 90403 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
403 90035 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
404 90405 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
405 90045 2/7/2022 10:40 AM
406 90045 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
407 90404 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
408 90049 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
409 90404 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
410 90405 2/7/2022 10:39 AM
411 90006 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
412 90025 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
413 90024 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1524 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
170 / 175
414 90405 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
415 90066 2/7/2022 10:38 AM
416 90405 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
417 90404 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
418 90024 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
419 92110 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
420 90025 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
421 90029 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
422 90403 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
423 90403 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
424 90405 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
425 90291 2/7/2022 10:37 AM
426 90403 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
427 90405 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
428 92887 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
429 90064 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
430 90405 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
431 90254 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
432 90405 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
433 90403 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
434 90405 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
435 90057 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
436 90291 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
437 90405 2/7/2022 10:36 AM
438 90066 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
439 90025 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
440 90049 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
441 90066 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
442 90404 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
443 90025 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
444 90038 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
445 90405 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
446 90026 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
447 90405 2/7/2022 10:35 AM
448 90066 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
449 90405 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
450 90404 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
451 90024 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1525 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
171 / 175
452 90066 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
453 90404 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
454 90024 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
455 90293 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
456 90405 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
457 90045 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
458 90066 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
459 91367 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
460 90025 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
461 90043 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
462 90006 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
463 90249 2/7/2022 10:34 AM
464 90024 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
465 90064 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
466 90064 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
467 90404 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
468 90034 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
469 90405 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
470 90405 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
471 90066 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
472 90027 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
473 90405 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
474 90401 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
475 90405 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
476 90403 2/7/2022 10:33 AM
477 90402 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
478 90025 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
479 90403 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
480 90404 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
481 90064 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
482 95020 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
483 90272 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
484 90025 2/7/2022 10:32 AM
485 91403 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
486 90025 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
487 90403 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
488 90034 2/7/2022 10:31 AM
489 90066 2/7/2022 10:30 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1526 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
172 / 175
490 90006 2/7/2022 10:30 AM
491 90401 2/7/2022 10:29 AM
492 90049 2/7/2022 10:28 AM
493 90064 2/7/2022 10:27 AM
494 90004 2/7/2022 10:25 AM
495 90016 2/7/2022 10:15 AM
496 90230 2/7/2022 10:13 AM
497 90019 2/6/2022 9:55 PM
498 90495-2835 2/5/2022 4:17 PM
499 90405 2/5/2022 9:42 AM
500 90405 2/5/2022 7:28 AM
501 90272 2/4/2022 6:40 PM
502 90034 2/4/2022 2:53 PM
503 99654 2/4/2022 2:45 PM
504 90403 2/4/2022 11:43 AM
505 90025 2/4/2022 10:06 AM
506 90401 2/4/2022 7:49 AM
507 90703 2/3/2022 8:00 PM
508 90292 2/3/2022 10:25 AM
509 90404 2/3/2022 7:46 AM
510 90403 2/2/2022 9:41 PM
511 90064 2/2/2022 4:44 PM
512 90025 2/2/2022 3:01 PM
513 90062 2/2/2022 2:55 PM
514 90745 2/2/2022 10:16 AM
515 90025 2/2/2022 9:55 AM
516 90019 2/2/2022 7:39 AM
517 90403 2/2/2022 1:01 AM
518 90043 2/1/2022 4:56 PM
519 90024 2/1/2022 12:04 PM
520 90066 2/1/2022 10:22 AM
521 90064 2/1/2022 7:34 AM
522 90035 2/1/2022 12:50 AM
523 90025 2/1/2022 12:14 AM
524 90034 1/31/2022 10:18 PM
525 90401 1/31/2022 9:55 PM
526 90401 1/31/2022 8:01 PM
527 90405 1/31/2022 2:44 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1527 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
173 / 175
528 90403 1/31/2022 1:22 PM
529 90405 1/31/2022 1:19 PM
530 90405 1/31/2022 12:50 PM
531 90405 1/31/2022 12:31 PM
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533 90405 1/31/2022 12:19 PM
534 90405 1/31/2022 12:11 PM
535 90404 1/31/2022 12:07 PM
536 90404 1/31/2022 11:29 AM
537 90049 1/31/2022 10:55 AM
538 90404 1/31/2022 8:54 AM
539 90064 1/31/2022 8:43 AM
540 90025 1/31/2022 7:51 AM
541 90401 1/30/2022 9:41 PM
542 90405 1/30/2022 1:43 PM
543 90005-2060 1/30/2022 12:40 PM
544 90401 1/30/2022 2:49 AM
545 90703 1/30/2022 12:19 AM
546 91745 1/29/2022 6:40 PM
547 90405 1/29/2022 9:53 AM
548 90402 1/28/2022 7:50 PM
549 90404 1/28/2022 2:17 PM
550 90066 1/28/2022 2:13 PM
551 90404 1/28/2022 1:54 PM
552 90405 1/28/2022 1:18 PM
553 90405 1/28/2022 11:36 AM
554 90066 1/28/2022 11:04 AM
555 90403 1/28/2022 10:35 AM
556 90025 1/28/2022 9:02 AM
557 90025 1/28/2022 8:16 AM
558 90049 1/28/2022 8:08 AM
559 90049 1/28/2022 6:53 AM
560 90404 1/28/2022 12:29 AM
561 90405 1/28/2022 12:09 AM
562 92336 1/27/2022 10:09 PM
563 90250 1/27/2022 9:59 PM
564 90403 1/27/2022 8:20 PM
565 90025 1/27/2022 7:52 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1528 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
174 / 175
566 90405 1/27/2022 6:07 PM
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568 90405 1/27/2022 5:35 PM
569 90029 1/27/2022 5:11 PM
570 90402 1/27/2022 4:55 PM
571 90404 1/27/2022 4:55 PM
572 90020 1/27/2022 4:21 PM
573 90016-4606 1/27/2022 4:19 PM
574 90402 1/27/2022 3:46 PM
575 90066 1/27/2022 3:38 PM
576 90402 1/27/2022 3:11 PM
577 90005 1/27/2022 3:00 PM
578 90025 1/27/2022 2:58 PM
579 90404 1/27/2022 2:43 PM
580 90245 1/27/2022 2:38 PM
581 90401 1/27/2022 2:28 PM
582 90404 1/27/2022 2:26 PM
583 90404 1/27/2022 2:23 PM
584 90025 1/27/2022 2:23 PM
585 33442 1/27/2022 2:12 PM
586 90404 1/27/2022 2:08 PM
587 90404 1/27/2022 2:04 PM
588 90403 1/27/2022 2:02 PM
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590 90025 1/27/2022 1:44 PM
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592 91401 1/27/2022 1:41 PM
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594 90401 1/27/2022 1:31 PM
595 90403 1/27/2022 1:30 PM
596 90404 1/27/2022 1:23 PM
597 24531 1/27/2022 1:23 PM
598 90404 1/27/2022 1:20 PM
599 90247 1/27/2022 1:18 PM
600 90034 1/27/2022 1:18 PM
601 90025 1/27/2022 1:11 PM
602 90293 1/27/2022 1:11 PM
603 90066 1/27/2022 1:06 PM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1529 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Proposed Fare Changes - February 2022
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604 90403 1/27/2022 11:41 AM
8.A.h
Packet Pg. 1530 Attachment: Survey responses to Proposed Fare Structure - February 2022 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
Contactless Fare Pilot Initiatives - 2021
Temporarily reduced one ride fare pricing on contactless fare payment systems
Passenger surveys at the beginning, middle and latter part of the pilot to gain feedback
Examination of the fare policies, fare collection procedures, and fare systems in
response to feedback
Title VI analysis on the pilot, and on the fare proposal, to assess impacts on minority and
low income communities
Bilingual public outreach, including 2000 hours of in person outreach to riders, print
media, audio announcements, banner messaging on mobile ticketing and website, and a
map of TAP reload locations.
Partnering with contactless fare media partners to ensure that distribution networks and
communications supported riders in adapting to contactless media
Installation of ticket vending machines at two new locations, LAX Transit Center and
Rimpau Transit Center to increase supply of locations for TAP card reload.
Distributed 9,500 free thirty-day passes on contactless fare media to introduce
passengers to contactless fares and reduce apprehension.
Added Customer Service staff to provide one on one assistance to vulnerable riders in
adapting to contactless fares
Assisting unbanked and underbanked passengers in understanding alternate ways to
pay their fare, by communicating through print messaging and one on one help at the
transit store.
Messaging that promoted the existing long-standing policy that no one is refused a ride
for lack of fare
Promotion of regional fare discounts to new contactless fare users, and reimbursement
of the cost of passport photo required for regional Senior reduced fare TAP card
Invited customers with paper passes to exchange them for contactless fares
Assessed the financial, operational, and efficiency outcomes of the pilot
Worked with Santa Monica College to transition the Any Line Any Time pass from a
paper pass, which required touching the farebox, to instead using TAP contactless fare
media.
8.A.i
Packet Pg. 1531 Attachment: List of Contactless Fare Pilot Initiatives - FY2021-22 (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
1
Vernice Hankins
From:Bonnie Johnstone <bonniejohnstone789@gmail.com>
Sent:Monday, April 11, 2022 9:42 PM
To:councilmtgitems
EXTERNAL
Hello City Council!
I'm hoping you'll vote yes! to reinstate cash fare payment on the Blue Buses!
Consider the person who comes here from out of town for a visit, doesn't have the "Tap Card", doesn't know where to
buy one, and simply wants to use the bus to patronize restaurants or other businesses!
Having a cash or card option is best for all.
Thank you.
Bonnie Johnstone
Item 8.A 04/12/22
1 of 4 Item 8.A 04/12/22
8.A.j
Packet Pg. 1532 Attachment: Written Comments (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
1
Vernice Hankins
From:Amy Gottstein <amygottstein@gmail.com>
Sent:Tuesday, April 12, 2022 11:34 AM
To:councilmtgitems
Subject:Agenda Item 8.A. - Proposed Changes to BBB Fare Policy
EXTERNAL
Dear City Council members,
I urge you to oppose BBB from discontinuing any Passes, particularly the 1‐Day Pass, 7‐Day Pass, and Annual Pass. I also
urge you to vote in favor for lowering costs for single rides and both 30‐day passes.
BBB riders need choices, and those choices include the fare products which work for every riders’ need and
convenience. I am an Annual Pass holder requesting first that it be maintained, and second that the cost (currently $500)
be lowered accordingly rather than discontinued. For me, this is a very convenient employer benefit just renewed two
months ago.
Whether you determine to allow the discontinuation of the Annual Pass or not, I further request you create a “remedy”
for those such as myself who have effectively overpaid ‐ in light of the proposal to allow free BBB to BBB transfers
(within 2 hours).
The BBB Survey questions are written in a way that suggests the discontinuation of certain passes “better align products
with customer preferences”, however the responses say otherwise! In fact, commenters are more in favor than not
toward maintaining the fare options above the favor shown in the survey numbers themselves. The bulk of responses
fell in the Neutral/Unsure or don’t know categories which can be viewed as an indication there is no impact either way,
or rather take‐it‐or‐leave‐it.
Reducing costs is overwhelmingly popular with respondents despite the lack of recommendation by BBB to implement.
An act in direct contrast with rider preference.
Question 3 ‐ Reduce the Regular Single Ride fare on TAP
Total Positive 600/85.6%
Total Negative 16/2.28%
Total Neutral/Unsure 85/12.12%
Question 5 ‐ Discontinue selling the Regular Day Pass
Total Positive (toward eliminating) 187/26.75%
Total Negative (toward maintaining) 156/22.32%
Total Neutral/Unsure or don’t know 371/53.77
Question 7 ‐ Discontinue selling the 7‐Day Pass
Total Positive 129/18.56%
Total Negative 183/26.33%
Total Neutral/Unsure 356/50.93%
Question 8 ‐ Discontinue selling the Annual Pass
Total Positive 115/16.67%
Total Negative 204/29.57%
Item 8.A 04/12/22
2 of 4 Item 8.A 04/12/22
8.A.j
Packet Pg. 1533 Attachment: Written Comments (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
2
Total Neutral/Unsure 383/55.11%
Question 11 ‐ Reduce the price of the Regular 30‐Day Pass
Total Positive 602/86.75%
Total Negative 15/2.16%
Total Neutral/Unsure 77/11.09%
Question 12 ‐ Reduce the price of the Senior/Disabled 30‐Day Pass
Total Positive 552/79.88%
Total Negative 18/2.61%
Total Neutral/Unsure 121/17.51%
Among the 404 comments in response to the above questions, many describe favoring choice and convenience for all
riders toward maintaining the passes versus elimination of passes. Further they do not see the point of discontinuing
passes when there are riders who benefit from them. As one put it, “How many customers have you had come in and
say “Man, I really hate that 7‐day pass I’d really like to pay more”. Some simply beg, “but why [discontinue]?”.
Page 7 of the Staff Report depicting the BBB Not Recommended chart notes the Public Response is Mixed for the
Regular 1‐Day Pass, 7‐Day Pass, and Annual Pass. The reason stated for not recommending them?: “Some customers
earnestly requested retention of this pass”.
TO TRULY ALIGN WITH CUSTOMER PREFERENCES: PLEASE OPPOSE DISCONTINUATION OF ANY PASSES
While the Staff Report notes free BBB to BBB transfers cut rider costs by as much as 50% for those like myself who must
take two buses each way, BBB is acting in direct contrast with rider preference with respect to lowering costs no matter
the overwhelming Favorable survey responses. BBB is instead recommending against lowering single ride fares and
recommending against lowering costs for both Regular and Senior/Disabled 30‐Day passes.
Meanwhile BBB neglects to explain why the “retention of the expense of cash collection on board makes some fare
reductions financially infeasible currently” means they are Not Recommending a decrease in single ride fares or the two
30‐day passes.
PLEASE IMPLEMENT THE LOWERING OF COSTS FOR SINGLE RIDES AND 30‐DAY PASSES
BBB says they welcome feedback and care about customers, but are nevertheless actively acting in direct contrast to
rider preference seeking to eliminate passes no matter the earnestness from customers to retain the passes. And no
matter the overwhelming Favorable survey responses to lowering other costs, BBB is again actively acting in direct
contrast to rider preference.
BBB acts in favor of itself over riders and continues to limit choices for riders. This proposal to eliminate passes and
refuse to lower costs is just another manner to limit rider choice even further. Please stop them from discontinuing
passes. Please implement lower costs. Survey respondents remarked about lack of choice in other respects too such as,
absence of benches and shelters (from wind, sun, rain) in addition to the poor scheduling which makes riders miss rather
than make their transfers because they are scheduled to parallel on streets and then converge in intersections all at
same times ‐ extending commute times. To further emphasize the lack of rider choice, BBB routes are scheduled in such
a way that alternate BBB routes (to same destination) do not offer alternate arrival times. The Transit store is closed
weekends and evenings. These realities do not reflect Rider Choice.
Thank you for your consideration,
Item 8.A 04/12/22
3 of 4 Item 8.A 04/12/22
8.A.j
Packet Pg. 1534 Attachment: Written Comments (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)
3
Amy Gottstein
Item 8.A 04/12/22
4 of 4 Item 8.A 04/12/22
8.A.j
Packet Pg. 1535 Attachment: Written Comments (4631 : Big Blue Bus Fare Policy)