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    1. Bus

    AVTA Kicks Off Rider Relief Transportation Program

    July 13, 2015
    Related To: Antelope Valley Transit Authority
    AVTA
    The Rider Relief coupons can be used each month when purchasing a bus pass from participating providers.
    The Rider Relief coupons can be used each month when purchasing a bus pass from participating providers.

    The Antelope Valley Transit Authority (AVTA) announced it has kicked off its Rider Relief Transportation Program (RRTP) to help reduce the cost of public transportation for eligible valley residents. As of July 1, valley residents can obtain a discount off the cost of a monthly AVTA bus pass if their income level qualifies. The RRTP, which is funded by Los Angeles Metro, promises to live up to its name and offer relief on the cost of public transportation to those who need it the most.

    The city of Palmdale's South Antelope Valley Emergency Services (SAVES) is the first organization to begin distributing the fare subsidy coupons to residents and Antelope Valley College intends to start providing the service to students by August 1, in time for the fall semester. AVTA plans to bring additional local agencies on board to participate in the program, including Grace Resource Center in Lancaster.

    “We’re hopeful this program will help those in our community who need it the most, those struggling with a limited income,” said Board Chair Marvin Crist. “The AVTA is dedicated to seeking out opportunities like this subsidy program to help make life easier on our residents.”

    Qualified applicants will receive a coupon booklet valid from July 1 through Dec. 31. The Rider Relief coupons can be used each month when purchasing a bus pass from participating providers. Full fare passengers may qualify for a $10 monthly coupon, while eligible reduced fare passengers may qualify for a six dollar coupon. Children over five years old whose parents qualify are automatically eligible to receive the Rider Relief coupons.

    “The Rider Relief Transportation Program is something we've been looking forward to implementing for quite a while, and it's exciting to see it finally happening," stated AVTA Director Steve Hofbauer. "It's bringing tax dollars back to our valley, through Metro, to benefit our residents. We are pleased that Palmdale’s South Antelope Valley Emergency Services was able to move so quickly to begin providing this service."

    The RRTP, which is funded through a grant from Los Angeles Metro, is administered through the FAME Assistance Corp., a Los Angeles-based organization that provides sustainable programs and access to needed services to over one million people annually.

    "The AVTA staff has been working diligently to implement the Rider Relief Program so that it is more accessible to all residents in the community," said Executive Director Len Engel. "The program has been available in Los Angeles County for many years but the north L.A. County region has had little access to agencies that distribute these coupons. AVTA is now spearheading the effort on behalf of FAME to bring local organizations on board, and the response has been terrific.”