TO: AC Transit Board of Directors
FROM: Salvador Llamas, General Manager/Chief Executive Officer
SUBJECT: Next Generation Clipper Tap-and-Ride Pilot
ACTION ITEM
AGENDA PLANNING REQUEST: ?
RECOMMENDED ACTION(S):
Title
Consider approving a six-month pilot of Clipper's Tap-and-Ride feature to enable staff to complete the required Title VI equity analysis.
Staff Contact:
Phillip Halley, Interim Director of Civil Rights & Compliance
Body
STRATEGIC IMPORTANCE:
Goal - Strong Public and Policymaker Support
In accordance with Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Circular 4702.1B, recipients must conduct a fare equity analysis to evaluate the effects of proposed fare changes on Title VI-protected populations. This process includes public outreach and feedback to ensure the District's continued compliance with FTA regulations.
BUDGETARY/FISCAL IMPACT:
There are no budgetary impacts associated with approving a six-month pilot of Clipper's Tap-and-Ride feature. However, there will be costs associated conducting public engagement as part of the Title VI analysis. Those costs are unknown at the time of this report.
BACKGROUND/RATIONALE:
On Monday, October 20, 2025, the Clipper Executive Board announced December 10, 2025 as the official start of transitioning to Next Generation Clipper. In addition to a host of other features, the new Clipper service includes the 'tap-and-ride' feature that allows riders to use a contactless bank card for fare payment (traditional plastic cards or mobile wallet cards).
The "tap-and-ride" feature is considered a new fare media; therefore, a Title VI fare equity analysis is required before permanent implementation. However, the time between the announcement and implementation dates is insufficient for staff to complete the analysis and conduct public engagement. FTA guidance permits agencies to pilot fare changes for up to six months without first completing the Title VI equity analysis. Adopting the "tap-and-ride" feat...
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