Data Collection Since Launch of BRT

Since BRT was officially launched in September, Metro has been using data collected through its farebox as well as smartcard taps recorded on its new electronic fare system.

Data Collection Issues

Metro experienced the following issues that have accounted for lower ridership counts than what are reflected in new APC data.

Old Farebox Equipment Not Recording Rides

It was noticed in Spring of 2024 that there were issues with farebox data. Some buses that were dispatched to busy runs were showing as "0" passengers in the data. Staff believed this may have affected thousands of rides.

UW Campus Routes

Drivers need to press a button to count each individual ride. Since the launch of Metro's new fare system, staff have noticed less fares recorded than in the past. 

This has been attributed to either the loss of data and/or a miscommunication with drivers that key counts were still needed after the launch of the new fare system. 

New Fare System

Metro launched an entirely new fare system to ensure quick boarding on its new BRT route. Drivers were encouraged to be flexible and allow people to ride even if they had difficulties at first with their new fare. 

Some issues experienced with the new fare system roll out included:

• Connection issues with ticket machines on BRT platforms. Some machines may not have been available to purchase fare.
• Single ticket rides were not allowing people to transfer.
• Some buses needed to go out on the road before equipment was installed.
• Some riders were still using old magnetic stripe cards which were recorded in the failing farebox data.