Evaluating the Role of Fare Structures in Improving Public Transportation Systems: What Lessons can Toronto, Canada Learn from Zurich, Switzerland?

Abstract

The purpose of this report is to develop an understanding of the role that fare structures, fare collection systems and incentives play in producing and maintaining high ridership levels and successful public transit systems. More specifically, this report seeks to answer the question: “What can Toronto learn from Zurich’s fare structures practices?” Zurich, Switzerland has been acknowledged around the world as having one of the most successful public transportation systems, with its success reflected in its high per capita ridership levels. It is for this reason that it was chosen to be a “best practice” example .