Overview

The City of Philadelphia is piloting a two-year Zero Fare Program to provide free public transit to 25,000 low-income residents aged 18-64. This program, evaluated by Georgetown University researchers, aims to reduce financial barriers and improve access to employment, healthcare, and community resources. By using randomized participant selection and analyzing transit usage, health, and economic outcomes, the project provides critical insights into the broader social and economic benefits of free transit systems.

Approach

The Zero Fare Pilot utilizes a randomized controlled trial design to assess its impacts on low-income residents. Participants receive preloaded transit cards for free access to buses, trolleys, subways, and regional rail. Surveys are conducted at baseline, six, twelve, and eighteen months to measure changes in transit behavior, employment, financial health, and well-being.

In addition to self-reported data, administrative records and transit tap-in data provide rich insights into mobility patterns and service utilization. The evaluation focuses on understanding how removing transit costs affects outcomes such as access to healthcare, employment stability, and mental health. This work, informed by a comprehensive theory of change, will support decisions on whether to extend or replicate the program in Philadelphia and beyond​​​.

Funders: City of Philadelphia , William Penn Foundation