MetroSharing Update; Analyzing the New Fares

I've been metrosharing more frequently these days and I can't help feeling that the combination of high unemployment and the imminent fare increase is making it easier to offer a swipe and easier for others to accept.  Although the fare increase does not take effect until June 28, the current fare, not to mention the coming hike, is pretty daunting, especially for people who aren't finding enough work.  

Look for people (usually young men) standing or leaning on a column near the turnstiles.  I sometimes get turned down, but not once has anyone seemed offended. The unemployment rate in New York City is at 8%, but much higher for certain groups (like young men!). I suspect the young men who routinely (and graciously, in every instance) accept my offer of a swipe, are not on the way to work.  This doesn't mean they don't work or don't want to work.

Remember that you can metroshare within the family as well as with the general public.  If your child has a school MetroCard (useless on weekends), s/he can use your unlimited on the weekend.  And it's completely legal for one member of the family to swipe in another in the morning and then use the same pass a little later to get to work (or college or the park, etc.). Walking a loved one to the nearest subway can be a great way to have someone all to yourself, even for just a few minutes.

Here's what's going to happen on June 28:

single ride will go from $2 to $2.25

(15% bonus on fare cards will be added to cards for $8 and above)

7-day unlimited will go from $25 to $27 

14-day unlimited will go from $47 to $51.50

30-day unlimited will go from $81 to $89

For one thing, the math is more complicated if you're trying to figure out the best deal for your budget and your riding habits.

Let's say you buy a $10 fare card, on which you get a $1.50 bonus.  You'll get 5 rides on that card, with $.25 left over.  If you refill it 8 times ($90 total expenditure, $103.50 total value with the bonus), you'll be paying just under $2 a ride ($1.96).  

When is an unlimited card a good value?

7-day: if you ride AT LEAST 14 times in the one-week

14-day: if you ride AT LEAST 27 times in the two-week period

30-day:  if you ride AT LEAST 46 times in the 30-day period

If you are buying an unlimited card, you get a lot more out of it if you metroshare.  Just pause and look around after you exit a turnstile.  Don't forget to smile.