Front Boarding, Fares To Resume On Dash Bus In Mid-March

ALEXANDRIA, VA — DASH Bus plans to resume front-door boarding and fare collection on Monday, March 15.

Alexandria's bus system had suspended fare collection and switched to rear boarding in March 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The measures were intended to reduce crowding at the fareboxes for the safety of drivers and riders.

DASH Bus has implemented other measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19, including the installation of permanent barriers around bus operator seats, hand sanitizer dispensers onboard buses, and encouraging touchless electronic fare payments. Other regional bus systems, including Metro, Fairfax Connector and Arlington Transit, resumed front boarding and fare collection in early January.

"This policy change brings us closer to resuming a ‘new normal’ of transit service while continuing to prioritize the safety of our employees, riders and community," said Josh Baker, the CEO and general manager of DASH.

When fares resume, a trip will cost $2. DASH will also bring back discounted and fare-free programs for students and seniors. Riders are encouraged to use electronic payment options such as the DASH Bus app and the SmarTrip app or card to eliminate contact at fareboxes and reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread.

As required by a federal mandate, riders must wear a face mask that covers the nose and mouth while waiting for, boarding, riding or leaving any DASH bus.