I recently sent the Maryland Transit Administration questions from our readers and was pleased to get answers quickly.
Leslie wrote: “I wanted to let you know that in the last week, on MTA buses [No. 3 and No. 55], I have had at least three rides when the MTA fare box was not working. …
“I have seen this for months now, on various MTA bus lines.
“I wonder if other passengers are reporting this, and also, what MTA is thinking by NOT repairing these fare receptacles. Seems like a lot of lost revenue!”
MTA response: “The revenue loss is less than might be assumed.
“A large percentage of our customers use weekly and monthly passes, and because they are purchased elsewhere, there is no resulting loss of revenue when a passholder rides a bus with a defective fare box.
“Also, day passes are very popular with passengers who transfer between buses, Light Rail and Metro. If a rider cannot purchase a day pass due to a malfunctioning fare box, the rider will purchase it on the second leg of the trip. If a fare box malfunctions once the bus is in service, we usually allow it to continue [for ] the shift rather than pull it from service.”
Seniors have options when renewing passes
Richard wrote: “Upon calling the MTA, I learned that the MTA office at 6 St. Paul St. is the closest location to my home in Sparks to renew the MTA Senior Photo Pass.
“And now that my pass has expired, I am not legally eligible to buy a senior pass on the Light Rail in Hunt Valley to travel to downtown to renew my pass.
“The cost of parking a car downtown, in my opinion, is prohibitive.
“So much for providing convenience to potential customers for public transportation.”
MTA response: “Senior riders may renew their passes at MTA?s downtown Baltimore office, but MTA staff also provide certification on a regular basis at senior centers and community events. …
“Requests for participation may be submitted directly to the Certification Office.”
