FREE RIDES: Birmingham Xpress is free, for now?

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Birmingham Express (Bham Now)
Catch a ride today! (Bham Now)

The Magic City’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, the Birmingham Xpress, is offering complimentary rides for until further notice! But how long will this deal last? Keep reading to learn more!

Why is it free?

We are all wondering why the bus has been giving complimentary rides.

Launched last fall, the Birmingham Xpress provides safe and reliable transit in Birmingham. Its 10-mile route contains 32 stops between Five Points West and Woodlawn, and riders can take advantage of the program for only $1.50 for a one-way fare and $3.50 for a round-trip. 

However, starting Monday, July 19, the Birmingham Xpress will begin offering complimentary services. Why the free rides? According to the Birmingham City Council, some riders who are using both the fixed-route MAX Transit buses and the Birmingham Xpress system are having to pay separate fees for both systems. 

This week, the Birmingham City Council approved a one-time, $300,000 bridge fund to cover the cost of suspended fares while a mobile payment system is developed to eliminate the double payments.  

Birmingham Xpress
No card needed! (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

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Julia Sager
Julia Sager
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