Post Date:02/17/2022 3:38 pm

As part of its response to the pandemic, the federal government apportioned transit agencies throughout the country with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to assist with daily operations and capital projects.

During the City’s 2022 Budget Process, the Janesville Transit System (JTS) proposed using a small portion of its ARPA funds to implement a fare program. The purpose of this program was to offer local non-profit agencies that routinely purchase reduced fare tokens the opportunity to receive complimentary tokens. Agencies then distribute the complimentary tokens to their clients or students to provide transit services to those in need. In turn, the program helps JTS bolster ridership as it responds to the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic.  

Following the approval of the City Council, the JTS Fare Program extended $600 worth of complimentary tokens each to six partner agencies, ECHO, GIFTS, House of Mercy, Salvation Army, Tokens for Teens, and the YWCA. Partner non-profits noted that the donation helped provide vital transit services to clients, allowing them to maintain access to employment, appointments, and community resources.

“We appreciate the donation as it allows us to provide homeless participants in our motel voucher program transportation that helps them complete their action plans to look for employment and housing,” stated Jessica Locher, Executive Director of ECHO, Inc. “It also helps us assist our general population by providing them transportation to employment.”

“These organizations serve numerous Janesville residents, many of which are also JTS riders; their support and ongoing patronage of JTS is much appreciated. I was delighted to implement this program to serve those in need of transportation”, said JTS Transit Director Rebecca Smith.

For questions, contact the Janesville Transit System at (608) 755-3150.