04/21/99
As part of a new fare simplification plan, CTA late last year began a six-month test of new farecards to help attract additional riders to the system. The new 1-Day Fun Pass and the 7-Day Pass have proven very popular, and the CTA Board Wednesday approved extending the test period by six more months so pass usage and the effects on CTA revenue and service could be thoroughly analyzed over a full year's time.
Priced at $5, the 1-Day Fun Pass was introduced in mid-November and allows unlimited rides on CTA for 24 hours beginning the first time it is used. The 7-Day Pass, which CTA started selling in mid-December, costs $20 and offers unlimited riding for seven consecutive days, also beginning with the first use, on both the CTA and Pace suburban bus service.
"The initial response to these new cards has been tremendous," said CTA President Frank Kruesi. "As we collect more data, we?ll be better able to analyze the trends and long-term impact of their use. But we?re already seeing indications that by offering unlimited rides, customers are using the CTA for more than just their daily commute."
Through the end of February, 1-Day Fun Pass sales averaged about 13,000 a month, and the passes were used an average of about seven rides per card. CTA's 7-Day Passes also achieved acceptance quickly, with sales of more than 56,000 in February alone. During this time, 7-Day Passes were used an average of about 26 times per card.
"Our customers have shown that when we put their needs first we are successful," said CTA Chairman Valerie Jarrett. ?These new passes have been a hit with customers right from the start because they are convenient and affordable, and they give our customers greater flexibility."
1-Day and 7-Day Passes are available at currency exchanges, at Jewel and Dominick's food stores, and on the Internet at www.transitchicago.com. The same outlets also sell 30-Day Passes (at $75 for full-fare riders and $35 for reduced-fare riders with RTA Reduced Fare Permit) that are valid for riding both the CTA and Pace.
For further information call CTA Customer Service at 1-888-YOUR-CTA.
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