Columnist Challenges Sound Transit: Make Regional Rail Free to Save Millions

A new opinion piece is stirring the pot on Puget Sound transportation, arguing that Sound Transit should abandon fare collection entirely for its Link light rail and Sounder trains. The core of the argument? The current system of charging riders is so expensive and inefficient that it might actually be cheaper to just open the gates.

The proposal suggests that by pivoting to a “fare-free” model, the agency could eliminate massive overhead costs while simultaneously solving its chronic issues with fare evasion.

The “Free Transit” Argument Breakdown:

• The High Cost of Collecting Cash: The author points out that Sound Transit spends a staggering amount of money on “revenue protection.” Between maintaining ticket machines, paying for ORCA card infrastructure, and hiring fare enforcement officers, the agency is spending millions just to chase a shrinking pool of revenue.
• The Enforcement Gap: Current data shows that fare evasion is rampant, particularly on the light rail system. Critics argue that the current “honor system” isn’t working, and the aggressive enforcement needed to fix it is both socially controversial and financially draining.
• Simplicity Over Bureaucracy: By removing the “middleman” of fare collection, the agency could theoretically reinvest those savings into better security and increased frequency, making the system more attractive to the public.
• Environmental and Social Wins: Eliminating fares would likely boost ridership, taking cars off the road and helping the state meet its climate goals. It would also remove a significant financial barrier for lower-income residents who rely on the train for work.

The Skeptical Counter-View: While the “free” idea is gaining traction in some circles, opponents worry about the “fiscal cliff.” They argue that even if fares only cover a fraction of the budget, that money is still essential for long-term expansion projects. There are also concerns that a free system could exacerbate security and hygiene issues on trains if the agency loses the ability to regulate who is using the space.

The column concludes that as Sound Transit prepares for massive future expansions, now is the time to decide if they are running a business or a public utility—and if it’s the latter, the turnstiles should go.