BATTLE CREEK, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Battle Creek Transit (BCT) has announced that it will collect fare from riders again starting on Tuesday, September 1, with boarding at the front of the vehicles.
Riders who still have multi-ride passes must exchange them for books of individual ride tickets for any remaining rides on the pass. Riders can purchase new books of individual tickets at the same rate as the multi-ride pass.
Officials say his change is to keep contact between drivers and passengers at a minimum as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. Riders will show the driver the front of the pass when boarding through the front door, and request a transfer at that time, if needed. Transfers remain free.
Whenever possible, riders should exit Transit vehicles through the rear doors, unless they need to use the lift or ramp.
Transit has been operating fare-free since late March to continue public transportation services to the community while also helping prevent the spread of the virus. This is equal to almost half of Transit’s annual fare revenues.
Officials add that the Transit team spent the last few months implementing a fare collection procedure that is safe for both passengers and staff.
BCT also reopened to the public Monday, and will be open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 339 West Michigan Avenue. The building will remain locked, but customers can walk up to the Plexiglas window at the front office to exchange and purchase passes.
Transit drivers cannot sell passes and cannot accept multi-ride passes that require the driver to punch the card.
Riders also can exchange and purchase passes at City Hall, which is open Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. for seniors age 60 and older, and 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. for visitors of all ages.
Bus fare remains at $1.25 per ride. Riders must pay exact cash fare; drivers cannot make change.
Riders are asked to wear a mask when using Transit services and to observe all social distance markings.
More information can be received by contacting contact Battle Creek Transit at 269-966-3474.
