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Iowa City’s Free Bus Fares Boost Ridership and Cut Emissions

11/20/2025

46 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Iowa City eliminated bus fares in August 2023 to reduce car emissions and promote public transit.
Ridership has exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 18%.
The City Council extended the program for another year, funded by a 1% utility tax increase and higher parking rates.
Bus drivers report less congested streets, and residents drove 1.8 million fewer miles, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 24,000 metric tons annually.

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Story summary

Iowa City eliminated bus fares in August 2023 to reduce car emissions and promote public transit.
Ridership has exceeded pre-pandemic levels by 18%.
The City Council extended the program for another year, funded by a 1% utility tax increase and higher parking rates.
Bus drivers report less congested streets, and residents drove 1.8 million fewer miles, cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 24,000 metric tons annually.