SANDAG Unveils Discount Transit Program For Certain Benefit Recipients – Patch

SANDAG Unveils Discount Transit Program For Certain Benefit Recipients  Patch

"Public transportation should remain affordable for the people who depend on it most," said MTS Board Chair Stephen Whitburn. SAN DIEGO, CA — Ahead of transit fares increasing on Oct. 1, the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System Thursday announced a program intended to keep transit affordable for riders enrolled in certain benefits programs. The PRONTO Low-Income Fare Eligible Program will give discounted rates to people enrolled in CalFresh, Medi-Cal or CalWORKs who are not already participating in another reduced-fare transit program with MTS or North County Transit – San Diego Railroad "Public transportation should remain affordable for the people who depend on it most," said Stephen Whitburn, MTS board chair and San Diego City Councilman.

"Many of our riders rely on transit to get to work, school, medical appointments, grocery stores and other essential destinations. PRONTO LIFE is an important program that will help keep transportation costs low for thousands of residents throughout our region." MTS and NCTD estimate there are around 34,000 eligible transit pass holders who may qualify for the program. Applications are now open at sdmts.com/fares/pronto-life-program. Approved participants will begin receiving discounted fares when fares increase on Oct. 1. "No one should pretend fare increases are painless," said Sean Elo- Rivera, MTS board member and San Diego City Councilman. "For a working mom trying to get to