Via Mobility adopts fare-free service model

BOULDER — Via Mobility Services, a Boulder-based nonprofit that provides public transit and paratransit, has moved to a fare-free model, effective Sept.1.

Via Mobility first adopted a fare-free structure during the COVID-19 pandemic to help riders facing increased financial strain due to medical and food expenses, but fares were reinstituted in 2022.

Despite that return to fares, senior leadership at the organization continued to explore the possibility of eliminating fares permanently, and the move was adopted by the board of directors, according to a press release.

Via previously charged $6 for a one-way trip within a town and $12 for a trip between towns. Via Mobility Services plans to offset the loss through private fundraising.

“As a local nonprofit transit and paratransit provider, we are nimble and empowered to make decisions that are in the best interests of those we serve,” Frank Bruno, CEO of Via Mobility, said in a statement. “For 46 years, Via Mobility Services has been serving the eight counties from the Denver metro area up to the Wyoming border with skilled paratransit as well as public shuttles and micro transit services. Via Mobility Services uses contract revenue to help fund our paratransit service, as well as our second-responder service to evacuate people in times of crisis. To do this effectively, we must continue to partner with local governments and fundraise, and we will remain creative and innovative in these efforts.”

More than 70% of Via Mobility Services riders have annual incomes under $30,000 and often face difficult choices between transportation, food and medication, the organization said, with more than 80% requiring door-through-door service.

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