​SMART Joins Bay Area Low-Income Fare Program

NORTH BAY, CA— Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit announced its participation Thursday in the new Clipper START pilot program which allows lower-income riders 19-64 years old to receive a fare discount of 50 percent on SMART trains.

Effective Monday, Nov. 23, North Bay transit riders with Clipper START cards will receive 50 percent discounts on SMART, Golden Gate Ferry and Marin Transit, and 20 percent discounts on Petaluma Transit, Santa Rosa CityBus and Sonoma County Transit.

"Affordability has been a challenge for regional transit,” said Eric Lucan, chair of the SMART Board of Directors. "Clipper START will provide some much-needed relief, so more people can begin to utilize this essential transportation option."

Eligible riders are encouraged to apply online at Clipperstartcard.com. Applicants must provide proof of identity and income, such as a copy of an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card or Medi-Cal card, a county benefits eligibility letter, or a copy of their last federal tax return to demonstrate their eligibility.

Riders who are approved will receive a personalized Clipper card in the mail. The card must be loaded with cash value before use. Clipper START participants receive a 50 percent discount on single-ride fares on SMART.