The Rapid to Make Fare Payment Changes Starting in August

The Rapid bus service is making changes to fare payments that go into effect this Saturday, August 1st.

The changes include:

• The elimination of free transfers for riders paying cash fare
• The elimination of change cards for riders paying cash fare without exact change
• The elimination of the fare free zone on the Silver Line in downtown Grand Rapids
• The elimination of fare free service on Route 19 (Michigan Crosstown

The Rapid says they provided notice of these changes and began collecting public feedback in mid-June.

They clarify that the cost to ride The Rapid is not changing, and cash fare will always be accepted as a form of payment:

These changes mean that cash-paying customers will no longer receive a change card if they board without exact change, and they will no longer have the option of a free transfer. However, Wave card users can utilize unlimited transfers for 1 hour and 45 minutes after boarding.

The Wave card, which is The Rapid's e-fare payment system, is available to buy and reload at Rapid Central Station,Walgreens, Speedway, and other retailers around Grand Rapids-- a full list of locations where Wave cards are sold can be found here.

Previously, riders were able ride the Silver Line north of Wealthy Street for free; starting Saturday riders will have to pay a valid fare to ride the Silver Line on the entire route.