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Metro has launched a systemwide campaign combining rider education, easier payment options and expanded enforcement to curb bus fare evasion that could cost the transit agency about $50 million this fiscal year.

The “Fares Pay for Service” campaign was highlighted Thursday, May 28, at the Paul S. Sarbanes Transit Center in Silver Spring. Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke joined Metro Transit Police officers, agency leaders, Board members and staff to promote increased enforcement and education across regional bus routes.

Clarke said fares help fund bus operators, vehicle maintenance, service improvements and long-term investments. He emphasized that payment is expected and that Metro Transit Police will enforce the agency’s fare policy.

Metro provides nearly 1 million passenger trips daily and reported 268.9 million trips in 2025. The agency said investments in reliability, technology, customer service and simpler payment methods have helped drive ridership growth, but bus fare evasion remains unacceptably high.

Metro Transit Police officers will use real-time video from aboard buses to identify fare evasion and respond to safety concerns. The agency said the additional digital tools are intended to make enforcement more effective while limiting delays to bus service.

Bus operators will also greet riders and remind them that the standard fare is $2.25. Passengers can use Metro’s Tap. Ride. Go. option to pay with a credit or debit card. Discounted fares remain available to eligible SNAP recipients, seniors, students and passengers with disabilities.

Metro has asked regional leaders to reinforce the campaign through social media, newsletters, community meetings and constituent outreach. Riders who refuse to pay may receive a citation and be removed from the bus.

The bus initiative follows enforcement changes on Metrorail, including stronger fare gates and a larger enforcement presence. Metro said those measures reduced rail fare evasion by more than 80% and contributed to public-safety efforts that identified people with outstanding warrants and recovered illegal weapons.

Metro serves about 4 million people across Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Its 2,054-square-mile service area includes six rail lines, 98 stations, 126 bus routes and door-to-door paratransit service.