Metra to step up fare validation efforts

Metra intends to increase fare collection enforcement this year, the commuter railroad announced last week.

Metra police officers will join train conductors in validating fares by checking that riders have the appropriate ticket for the trip they’re taking, and potentially citing those who do not and removing them from the train, Metra officials said in a written statement posted to the Metra Facebook and Twitter accounts.

In some situations, Metra staff also may ask riders to verify their tickets at stations before boarding trains. The railroad has used that fare validation method in the past during high-volume ridership days, officials said. 

Additional signage will be posted throughout the system to highlight the fare requirement and potential penalties. 

“We’ve heard from many customers who want us to make sure we collect the appropriate fare from everyone,” agency officials wrote. “We are listening, and that is why there will be some stepped-up efforts by Metra staff this year.”