By TRISTAN HALSEN, contributing writer
Published May 11, 2022

Everett Transit to reduce fares for some, under-18s to ride free

EVERETT — Everett Transit has announced its proposal plans to modify fares for its bus services. 
The proposal consists of: free youth fare, introduction of a Subsidized Annual Pass program, and reducing the current ORCA Lift fare to $1.
The ORCA Lift program lets income-eligible residents in the system pay reduced fares.
“King County has a similar system that we took inspiration from,” Everett Transit’s director Tom Hingson said. “Our goal here is to encourage people to come back to using our bus system.” 
The price changes for the proposed plan include having all children below 18 ride for free.
ORCA Lift prices would lower from $1.50 to $1 for a single trip, and from $54 to $36 for a monthly pass. Everett Transit will present this proposal to the City Council on May 25. A public hearing and testimony will take place on June 1 regarding the proposed fare change.
Changes for the youth fare rate are expected to take place on July 1, with later changes coming in late 2022.
People can get an ORCA Lift card if they earn less than 200% of the federal poverty level. Having Apple Health Medicaid or an EBT food card are automatic indicators you’re eligible. College students who receive a state Opportunity Grant for student aid also are automatically eligible. To apply or ask questions, call 1-800-756-5437 or go to reducedfare.king
county.gov/en-US/orca-lift-main/ or visit a DSHS-run Community Service Office.

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