Clipper® BayPass Debuts for San Mateo, California Residents
The free passes will assist socio-economic disadvantaged communities and students.

Clipper BayPass is the first initiative to be implemented based on recommendations of the Regional Fare Coordination/Integration Study, an 18-month study led by MTC and BART that focused on creating a more customer-friendly transit fare system in the Bay Area.
SamTrans/Proterra
Select affordable housing communities managed by MidPen Housing in San Mateo, Calif., will start receiving free transit passes to use on any transit system in the Bay Area. The free passes will assist socio-economic disadvantaged communities and students. SamTrans — in conjunction with other transit agencies participating in the Clipper fare payment system — is excited to take part in the program.
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), in partnership with Bay Area transit agencies, launched the Clipper BayPass pilot program in August that will provide some 50,000 Bay Area residents free access to all bus, rail, and ferry services in the nine-county region.
Clipper BayPass is the first initiative to be implemented based on recommendations of the Regional Fare Coordination/Integration Study, an 18-month study led by MTC and BART that focused on creating a more customer-friendly transit fare system in the Bay Area.
“The Clipper BayPass for communities and students in San Mateo County and across the Bay Area is a major accomplishment for the region and will continue to show the power of transit ridership in the County.” said Peter Ratto, SamTrans board chair.
The MTC will provide funds to transit agencies to offset the revenue impacts of the Clipper BayPass pilot, which is expected to conclude at the end of 2024.
More Management

Turn Transit Data Into Action
Discover how leading agencies are using connected technology to gain real-time visibility across operations, improve service reliability, and reduce disruptions.
Read More →
What Transit-Oriented Development Means for the Future of Public Transportation
Once viewed primarily as transit operators, agencies are now leveraging land, partnerships, and long-term planning to boost ridership, expand housing, and strengthen communities.
Read More →
USDOT Announces $22 Million for Transit Innovation, Updates High-Speed Rail Rules
New federal transit funding will support safety, accessibility, and technology projects as updated rail regulations establish new noise standards for high-speed trains.
Read More →
Transportation Construction Coalition Unveils Infrastructure Case Studies Ahead of Federal Funding Deadline
The coalition noted the next surface transportation bill should provide sustained investment in highways and public transit to strengthen freight movement, improve safety, and support economic growth.
Read More →
People Movement: American Bus Association Extends Ferguson and More
METRO’s People Movement highlights the latest leadership changes, promotions, and personnel news across the public transit, motorcoach, and people mobility sectors.
Read More →
METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners
Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence
Read More →
MBTA Rolls Out Pilot Programs to Cut Costs, Simplify Travel
Three new fare pilots — including unlimited two-hour transfers, reduced express bus fares, and free transit for eligible seniors — will launch this fall as Massachusetts extends popular commuter rail discounts through November.
Read More →
FTA Opens $610 Million Funding Opportunity for Bus Infrastructure Projects
The latest Notice of Funding Opportunity provides transit agencies with funding for bus facilities, fleet modernization, and low- and no-emission vehicles, with applications due September 21.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
Massachusetts Approves $530M to Strengthen MBTA Operations, Infrastructure
The funding package targets operating stability, capital improvements, and fare affordability, offering a model for agencies navigating long-term funding challenges.
Read More →