The Lab @ DC, a scientific team based in the Washington, D.C., Office of the City Administrator, will study whether subsidies for low-income residents increase the use of transit in the city.
Low-income riders comprise 18 percent of rail ridership in the city and 48 percent of bus ridership. These commuters are less likely to be able to afford other transit options or to receive a subsidy from their employers.
During the study, researchers will randomly evaluate discounted transit fares for residents receiving public assistance. Eligible adults interested in participating in the study will be assigned one of three fares for six to nine months.
Up to 2,500 residents will be assigned either free, unlimited trips on transit, partially-discounted fare, or no discount.
“Through innovative investments and initiatives, we can make our public transportation system more equitable and affordable for our residents,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said. “A strong, sustainable, and reliable public transit system keeps our city growing and thriving. This study will guide best practices on how we can effectively use transit subsidies to give more Washingtonians a fair shot.”
The study is a collaboration between the lab, the District Department of Transportation, and the Department of Human Services.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Board will vote Thursday on whether to approve the study.