Usage, Impacts, and Benefits of Innovative Transit Pass Program

Abstract

An evaluation of an innovative transit program, UPASS, is summarized. UPASS provides unlimited use of the Milwaukee County Transit System at any time and any place and for any purpose for all students enrolled at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The pass program, paid for by a special fee attached to students’ tuition, was implemented in fall 1994 and was extensively evaluated to determine its impact on ridership and other factors and to determine whether the concept has the potential for transfer to other organizations and employers. Benefits and disbenefits to transit users, nonusers, employers, and transit agencies are described. In addition, elements of a successful program are outlined.