The IndyGo Board of Directors voted to approve updates to its fare policy on Aug. 21 — which includes fare increases.
The policy will “further modernize its fare collection system,” with fare adjustments, increases and the retirement of outdated fare products. The update aims to foster an “equitable, reliable and customer-centered fare payment experience,” according to a press release.
“A modern, accessible transit system is the backbone of a thriving city,” Jennifer Pyrz, IndyGo president and CEO, said in a statement. “Fare increases are never easy, but this step is about protecting the service our riders depend on. IndyGo remains committed to putting customers first and ensuring our system remains safe, reliable and accessible for all who depend on it now and into the future.”
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Fares
Since 2009, IndyGo’s fares have remained the same — a testament to the agency’s “efficiency and customer-first philosophy.” However, according to staff, the cost of fuel, labor and vehicle maintenance have continued to rise in the last 16 years, and fare adjustment has become necessary in maintaining existing service levels, investing in essential maintenance and repairs and supporting fair, competitive wages for frontline staff.
However, the newly adopted fare structure will continue to include free two-hour transfers, daily and weekly fare capping through the MyKey fare payment system, half-priced fares for seniors, youth and individuals with disabilities and free trips for veterans.
Passes and MyKey
IndyGo decided to discontinue the sale of several paper passes to instead support its long-term vision of modernizing the system, improving efficiency and “ensuring all riders have access to flexible and affordable fare options,” according to a press release.
MyKey offers riders a more convenient, equitable payment option by allowing them to pay-as-they-go, eliminating the need for large upfront payments. Additionally, MyKey allows frequent riders to “automatically earn their way to fare-free rides” through fare capping — which generally provides the same benefit as paper passes but in a format suitable for modern fare equipment.
The updated fare policy includes:
- A base fare increase from $1.75 to $2.75 for fixed route service, effective Jan. 1, 2026.
- Daily fare capping using MyKey = $4.00 to $6.00
- Weekly fare capping using MyKey = $15.75 to $24.75
- Fare increases for IndyGo Access, paratransit service riders, effective July 1, 2026.
- ADA Area = $3.50 to $5.50
- Premium Area = $7.00 to $11.00
- Same Day = $10.00 to $15.00
- Stopping the sale of 10-trip, 31-day, S-Passes and Summer Youth Passes on July 1, 2026.
- No longer accepting 7-day, 10-trip, 31-day, S-Passes and Summer Youth Passes as of July 1, 2027. (NOTE: Even though IndyGo is discontinuing the sale of the 31-day paper passes, riders can enjoy similar benefits through MyKey.)
Implementation
IndyGo is officially launching a comprehensive education campaign ahead of the Jan. 1, 2026, effective date, which will focus on reaching low-income riders, riders with limited English proficiency, seniors, youth and riders with disabilities.
IndyGo also plans to host a series of on-bus educational conversations, pop-up stations and virtual info sessions to ensure all riders understand the rate increase and how they can get the most value from MyKey, according to the press release.
“We’re committed to making sure every rider understands what is changing and when,” Carrie Black, IndyGo chief public affairs officer, said in a statement. “Whether you’ve been riding IndyGo for years or you just took your first trip yesterday, we’re here to help you navigate these changes.”
For more information about upcoming IndyGo events or the updated fare policy, visit IndyGo.net or follow IndyGo on social media @IndyGoBus. For questions, call IndyGo’s Customer Care Center at 317-635-3344.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx.
Chloe McGowan is the Arts & Culture Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper. Originally from Columbus, OH, Chloe has a bachelor's in journalism from The Ohio State University. She is a former IndyStar Pulliam Fellow, and has previously worked for Indy Maven, The Lantern, and CityScene Media Group. In her free time, Chloe enjoys live theatre, reading, baking and keeping her plants alive.
