UTA to waive fares this weekend while it upgrades its fare system

The Utah Transit Authority will not collect fares this weekend so it can keep upgrading its fare collection software and hardware, Utah Public Radio reported. The upgrades could include more tap-to-pay options. ^[1] UTA's notice says fares are suspended systemwide Oct. 16-18, following a similar pause Sept. 18-20, while the agency modernizes its fare collection software and hardware to lay the foundation for additional payment options. ^[2]

The pause is similar to a three-day fare-free period last month, according to the report. Utah Public Radio also reported that fares could rise from $2.50 to $3 sometime next year, which would be the agency's first increase in over a decade if approved. ^[1]