DC-Maryland-Virginia Metro Seniors Embrace Half-Price Transit
Metro's Senior SmarTrip program reaches 489,391 enrollments offering 50% fare discounts
Metro Senior SmarTrip Hits 489,391 Enrollments
More than 489,000 seniors across the DC-Maryland-Virginia region now ride Metro at half price through the Senior SmarTrip program, transit officials announced Friday. The program reached 489,391 enrolled customers, offering residents 65 and older a 50% discount on bus and rail fares. Officials didn't specify when the program launched or how enrollment has grown over time.
Discount Program Serves Fixed-Income Riders
The Senior SmarTrip program provides affordable transit access for older adults on fixed incomes, according to Metro. Eligible residents can obtain cards online, by mail, or at Metro sales offices with proof of age and residency. The 50% fare reduction applies to both bus and rail services throughout the Washington metropolitan area. Officials haven't released data on how many seniors in the region are eligible for the program or what percentage of that population has enrolled.
Nearly Half-Million Cards Now Active
The 489,391 enrollment figure represents customers currently registered for the senior discount program, transit officials said. Metro announced the milestone January 10 via its social media channels. Officials didn't provide historical enrollment numbers showing how quickly the program has grown or when previous milestones were reached. The agency also hasn't disclosed the program's annual cost or revenue impact on Metro's budget.
Program Continues Accepting Applications
Seniors can continue enrolling in the discount program as they become eligible, officials said. The agency didn't announce any changes to eligibility requirements or discount rates with the milestone announcement. Metro hasn't said whether it plans to expand the program or adjust its terms in the coming year.
Riders Can Track Service Through Moovit
The enrollment milestone shows strong demand for affordable transit among the region's older adults, officials said. Seniors using the discount program can access both Metrobus and Metrorail services throughout the Washington area. Riders can check real-time schedules and plan trips using Moovit, which provides updates for Metro's bus and rail services across the region.
