As Metra riders have been slow to return, the agency will test a new type of day pass in an attempt to draw more back.
The new $6 daily pass will be valid for unlimited rides within three zones beginning Feb. 1. It is intended to encourage shorter trips, Metra said.
The new pass will be available only in the Ventra app.
A $10 daily pass unveiled earlier in the pandemic
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, which is valid on all lines until 3 a.m. the following morning, will continue to be offered in 2022. The pass had been available as a paper and mobile ticket, but beginning Feb. 1 will also become available only in the app.Both passes will be valid for seven days from the purchase date.
Metra is making other changes to its fares and expiration dates beginning Feb. 1:
One-way tickets will be valid for 14 days, instead of 90 days.
10-ride tickets will be valid for 90 days, instead of one year.
Round Trip Plus tickets will be discontinued.
Metra has been struggling with low ridership since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, though it has ticked up over the months. In November, it was 27% of pre-pandemic levels, spokesman Michael Gillis said.