(Radio Iowa) – Iowa City leaders are expected to vote today (Tuesday) to approve a two-year pilot program that would end fare requirements on city buses, making it free to ride starting this fall. The plan is in Iowa City’s strategic plan and has been widely supported by city council members. City Councilor Megan Alter says it aligns with the city’s goals to reduce barriers in the city while also helping meet carbon reduction plans.

Iowa City Transit’s rider number still lag behind pre-pandemic levels. Last year’s ridership stood at just 26-percent of what it was in 2019. The department hopes free busing will help increase demand. Bus fares make up about eight-percent of Iowa City Transit’s revenue.