OATS Transit has announced it will be implementing a new fare system in Southwest Missouri starting in 2019. This change is being made to help offset declining revenues, while supporting increased ridership opportunities. The fares are necessary to maintain current levels of service and will directly impact the company’s operating budget.
Rider contributions in Southwest Missouri haven’t changed in nearly a decade. “Some fares in the area were previously donation based, but revenue isn’t keeping up with demand,” said Jeff Robinson, OATS Transit Regional Director. “The increased ridership opportunities we’re creating through new partnerships will be supported by the new fares, which will be implemented in 2019,” added Robinson. The fares will affect the Southwest Missouri counties of Barry, Barton, Christian, Dade, Dallas, Douglas, Greene, Jasper, Lawrence, McDonald, newton, Ozark, Polk, Stone, Taney, Webster and Wright.
2019 Fares Per Round-Trip:
In-Town Springfield…………………………………$3.00
In-Town in Rural Communities..………………$2.00
In-County…………………………………………………$3.00
Adjacent County………………………………………$5.00
Long Distance (3 counties or more)…………$10.00; $6.00 one-way
Additional cost per each En route stop…..$1.00
Fare cards are available for purchase from the OATS Transit office or from a local driver. Rides can be scheduled by calling the Springfield office at 800-770-6287.
OATS Transit is funded, in part, through Federal Transit Administration grants through the MO Department of Transportation, Missouri Elderly & Handicapped Transportation Assistance Program, Area Agencies on Aging, some 351 Senior Tax and Senate Bill 40 Boards, private contracts, rider fares and contributions from the community. No rides will be denied for riders unable to pay under the Older Americans Act on AAA routes.