METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

CapMetro resuming fares, adding safety shields

The agency will also introduce its Workforce Aid Pass, valid for the month of June.

May 29, 2020
2 min to read


With fares returning on June 1, customers will be able to board through the front door. CapMetro

Austin, Texas’ CapMetro extended it free fare period through May 31 and will resume fare collection on all its services beginning June 1. The agency will also introduce its Workforce Aid Pass, valid for the month of June. Through this program, CapMetro will offer fare-free service to community members who are experiencing unemployment.

Plexiglass shields will be installed on all CapMetro vehicles by the end of the month to offer further protection to operators and customers. With fares returning on June 1, customers will be able to board through the front door. CapMetro implemented fare-free service on April 1 to protect both customers and operators. The agency also required all passengers to use rear door boarding in order to further promote social distancing and slow the spread of COVID-19.

Ad Loading...

To offer relief during the pandemic, the transit agency will continue fare-free service through the end of June for customers experiencing unemployment. Anyone who is currently unemployed and has been approved with the Texas Workforce Commission for unemployment benefits is eligible for the Workforce Aid Pass.

"We're really proud of the way our CapMetro team has adjusted these past few months to care for our community," said CapMetro President/CEO Randy Clarke. "We want to further extend our support for members of the community who are experiencing unemployment and are maybe even using CapMetro services to find their next job."

To receive the Workforce Aid Pass, customers must submit acknowledgement of their unemployment status from the Texas Workforce Commission. They will then need to forward that documentation to CapMetro before picking up a pass or having one mailed to them.

The agency also announced the following health and safety measures will remain in place across all CapMetro services until further notice:

  • Enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures will continue CapMetro vehicles throughout the day.

Ad Loading...
  • Skip-a-seat signage is still present on CapMetro vehicles to promote social distancing.

  • All customers are required to wear a facial covering while using CapMetro services. CapMetro operators are provided facial coverings to wear during their shifts.

  • Customers are asked to practice good hygiene practices and not ride transit if feeling sick.

More Management

Terrel Smith on a bus with Kiel seats

Terrel Smith Launches New TransitOne Venture, Focuses on Building Relationships

The company partners with manufacturers such as Kiel Seating, Camira Fabric, and TSI Video, focusing on areas that directly impact both passenger experience and operational performance.

Read More →
A group of people stand in the Harlem-148 Street 3 Station and pose during a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

New Accessibility Upgrades Open at Harlem Subway Station

A new ADA-compliant ramp and station upgrades improve access, enhance the rider experience, and deliver millions in cost savings for the MTA.

Read More →
Erin Hockman
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

Iowa's DART Taps New CEO

Erin Hockman will officially assume the role on May 7, as current CEO Amanda Wanke departs to take a leadership position with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Caltrain trains on tracks
Railby StaffMay 1, 2026

Caltrain Survey Shows Record-High Rider Approval

The survey showed that commute trips still make up the majority of ridership, with most riders boarding 2 to 3 days a week, reflecting hybrid work schedules. Two-thirds of Caltrain riders have access to a car, while 37% of Caltrain riders are considered low-income.

Read More →
A VIA bus
Busby StaffMay 1, 2026

San Antonio's VIA Launches Next Round of Bus Improvements

The changes are designed to reduce overall travel time, shorten wait times, and get customers to their destinations more quickly.

Read More →
A graphic of a map showing a "Snapshot of Systemwide Vulnerabilities (projected)."
Managementby News/Media ReleaseMay 1, 2026

MBTA Unveils First Systemwide Climate Resilience Roadmap

The plan outlines strategies to protect transit infrastructure from extreme weather, prioritize critical investments, and improve system reliability as climate risks intensify.

Read More →
Ad Loading...

People Movement: DART Names Interim Chief, Clean Energy Taps New President/CEO

In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at MCTS, Voith, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.

Read More →
A person working on a bus
ManagementMay 1, 2026

Data-Driven Maintenance: Focusing Effort Where It Matters Most

Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.

Read More →
transit tracker connectpoint
Sponsoredby Alex RomanMay 1, 2026

Connectpoint Expands Digital Signage Strategy with LED Push

Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
frontrunner bus
SponsoredMay 1, 2026

ADA Compliant Transit: Easier, More Dignified Travel for Every Passenger

Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.

Read More →