Miami MetroConnect Adjusts Zones and Fares

Miami-Dade MetroConnect eliminates two zones, raises fares to $3.75, ends weekend service

MetroConnect Cuts Zones, Raises Fares Feb 1

Miami-Dade County's MetroConnect service will eliminate two service zones and raise fares starting Sunday, February 1, transit officials said. The on-demand transit service will no longer operate in the Civic Center and Waterford Business District Zones, while implementing a new $3.75 standard fare. Weekend service will be discontinued across all remaining zones, with operations limited to weekdays only.

Service Consolidation Aims to Standardize Operations

The changes represent a standardization of service hours and fare structure across the MetroConnect system, according to Miami-Dade Transit. The agency said the modifications will create consistent operating parameters for the on-demand service, which launched as a flexible alternative to fixed-route transit in select areas. Officials didn't specify ridership data for the zones being eliminated or explain why those particular areas were selected for service cuts. Transit agencies typically adjust microtransit zones based on demand patterns and operational costs.

New Fare Structure Includes Transit Hub Discount

The standard fare will be $3.75 per person per trip, payable at booking time through the MetroConnect app. A discounted fare of $1.50 will apply to trips beginning or ending at designated transit terminals connecting with Metrorail, Metrobus, and the South Dade TransitWay, officials said. Eligible transit hubs will be displayed in the app during the booking process. The discount aims to encourage connections between the on-demand service and fixed-route transit, though officials haven't said how many terminals will qualify for the reduced fare.

Weekday-Only Service Begins February 1

MetroConnect will only be available Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting February 1, with weekend service discontinued for all zones. Officials said riders can access detailed information about service changes and fares through the FAQ section of the MetroConnect app. The agency didn't provide advance notice of how long the changes had been planned or whether public input was solicited before the modifications were finalized.

Alternative Routes Available in Affected Areas

Riders in the Civic Center and Waterford Business District Zones can use alternative transportation options, including multiple Miami-Dade Transit routes, Broward County Transit routes, and City of Miami Trolleys, officials said. Transit officials encouraged passengers to plan their trips accordingly and explore fixed-route options for areas no longer served by MetroConnect. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for Miami-Dade Transit services, including Metrorail, Metrobus, and alternative routes in affected areas.