Key West bus fares drop to 20 cents during Conch Republic Day Celebration

 

 

BY PRU SOWERS

KONK LIFE STAFF WRITER

 

 

OK, it’s not free but at 20 cents, riding a bus in the Lower Keys on Conch Republic Day will be pretty cheap.

 

 

On April 23, in addition to celebrating the short but festive independence of Key West from the United States, revelers will be able to ride any bus in the Key West transportation system for 20 cents. It’s part of the Key West Transportation Department’s effort to keep Conch Republicans safe, as well as encourage the use of public transportation.

 

 

“The reduced fare service promotes use of public transportation in our community and allows the City of Key West to participate in the celebration of our community by providing a safe alternative mode of transportation to party revelers,” said city Transportation Director Norman Whitaker in a memo to City Manager Jim Scholl.

 

 

Free or reduced bus fares are offered by the city on Christmas, St. Patrick’s Day and some days during Fantasy Fest.

 

 

As for how the 20 cent fare rate was established, Whitaker said it was a tribute to April 23, 1982, when the Conch Republic was first established: 1+9+8+2 = 20 cents.

 

 

“When a new passenger has a positive experience, we often times gain a new customer,” Whitaker said. “Last but not least, use of public transit helps everyone by reducing emissions in the environment and reducing our carbon footprint for improved air quality.”

 

 

The estimated cost of footing the bill for the reduced fare, based on passenger traffic on April 23 in prior years, will be $ 2,118.32 for all routes on that day.

 

 

Key West City Commissioners unanimously approved the 20 cent fare at their April 7 meeting.

[livemarket market_name="KONK Life LiveMarket" limit=3 category=“” show_signup=0 show_more=0]