Fare-capping is an emerging fare policy where agencies track passenger spending over a set period (daily, weekly, or monthly) and automatically convert fare payments into a pass once spending reaches the pass cost, ensuring passengers don’t pay more than passholders. This approach can promote equity by offering discounted per-trip rates to those unable to afford upfront pass costs or with unpredictable travel patterns.

While fare-capping appears to enhance equity, understanding its impact on different passenger groups—especially low-income riders and those with disabilities—requires deeper analysis of travel behaviors. Key questions include who benefits most and under what conditions fare-capping supports vulnerable populations.

The objective of this research is to develop a comprehensive report that includes:

• A review of previous studies on fare-capping’s effects on travel behavior, with emphasis on demographic breakdowns (e.g., age, income, disability).
• An analysis of cost savings and increased mobility benefits across different population groups in various metropolitan areas.
• A framework or tools for transit agencies to assess the equity and mobility benefits of fare-capping policies.