A pilot program to give the city’s low-income youth a free Fast Pass to ride Muni will not happen as planned.
The Metropolitan Transportation Commission voted 8-7 Wednesday against giving $4 million to help Muni fund a $9 million pilot program.
The commission had been debating for months on whether or not to give the Municipal Transportation Agency money for the program. The 22-month pilot program had the support of Muni’s board of directors, but it was contingent upon getting regional transportation funds.
Commissioners also rejected funding for similar public transportation programs in Santa Clara and Alameda counties.
The San Francisco Chronicle reported that some commissioners want a regional program.
Muni spokesman Paul Rose said the agency was disappointed by the vote.
“At this point, we will have to regroup and see where we are without funding from the region. We need to talk to our board and the city to explore any options that are available,” said Rose.
