So, when is the MBTA going to get some dollar machines for the buses? Usually I just end up sticking a dollar bill in the transfer box anyway; it’s less trouble than trying to find 90 cents of change in the couch…
Hell, I say just raise the rates, and institute a transfer system, like in Chicago (where I used to live). As far as the economic impact of a 10 cent increase: if you took the bus twice a day, five days a week, that would be all of $4.40 per month out of your pocket. I think even for low-income folks that’s pretty negligible.
Am I wrong here?
Please share widely!
How about installing the dollar machines, but keeping the fares where they are? Then those of us for whom the convenience of using a dollar bill rather than a bunch of change is worth 10 cents can pay $1 with a bill, while those of us who would prefer to keep their $4.40 a month can keep paying 90 cents. I bet the extra dimes that the T would bring in if it offered the convenience of dollar bills to its customers would pay for the machines pretty fast, and it wouldn’t have to take the political hit of raising fares.
How many graduates of Massachusetts public schools can add up change to 90 cents?
They won’t be installing dollar machines because next year (2006) they’ll be switching to fare cards.
Thanks Brittain33, that’s terrific news. I’ll Google some confirmation of that.