CUE Zero-Fare Policy

Summary

The CUE Zero-Fare Policy refers to the City of Fairfax's zero-fare pilot program for its CUE bus system, originally adopted for FY2022 and running for four years through the end of FY2026. The program has been supported in part by a grant from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation's (DRPT) Transit Ridership Incentive Program (TRIP). As the pilot approaches expiration, the City has been evaluating its future. On November 4, 2025, the City Council received a presentation on the CUE Zero Fare Evaluation at a work session, generating discussion but no formal action. On February 17, 2026, the Council unanimously approved (6-0) a resolution endorsing the City's application to DRPT's TRIP program for a second grant to continue funding zero fares beginning in FY2027, indicating intent to extend the policy beyond its current pilot period.

Open questions & options on the table

• Whether DRPT will approve the City's second TRIP grant application for FY2027.
• What the long-term or permanent status of the zero-fare policy will be following the conclusion of the four-year pilot at the end of FY2026.
• What the CUE Zero Fare Evaluation (presented November 4, 2025) concluded and whether its findings will drive any further policy changes.