TransLink mulls distance-based fares

TransLink has proposed using distance-based fares for rides on SkyTrain, SeaBus and future rapid rail projects.

Under the proposal, the agency's existing three-zone system would be replaced with one that charges customers based on the number of kilometers they travel between stations. The maximum fare would remain the same as it is under the current zone system.

The new fare structure is aimed at addressing common complaints TransLink has heard about the current system, agency officials said in a press release. For example, passengers have to pay a high price for short trips across a zone boundary.

The fare change is expected to be revenue neutral.

The proposal comes after months of public consultation, research and technical analysis, agency officials said.

"TransLink has received over 55,000 responses through this review, many from people wanting a system where paying for transit is fair for more people, while also being affordable and simple to use," said TransLink Vice President of Transportation Planning and Policy Geoff Cross. "Replacing our zone-system with pricing that is more gradual and incremental based on distance between stations is a way to do that."

TransLink is accepting feedback on the recommended fare structure until June 29.