Baltimore's new Circulator launched yesterday and it's free

One of the concerns I have about free transit systems in the core of the center city is that they tend to provide service to higher income riders. The service is provided free to make it more likely that automobile trips will be significantly reduced-interdicted in favor of transit (e.g., Portland has a "fareless square" in the central business district and certain adjoining areas where all transit--light rail, streetcar, and bus--is free). Still, it raises equity issues. Now, Fareless Square in Portland is paid for in part by a transit withholding tax. And the free bus service in Baltimore is paid for by a fee on paid parking. But the issue is likely to come up regardless.

For info on the service, see "Getting around downtown just got easier — and it's free" from the Baltimore Sun.

Photo by Tim Wheeler, B'More Green blog.