Dominican Republic implements unified fare in public transportation in the capital

Santo Domingo implements an integrated fare of 35 Dominican pesos on the 27 de Febrero Corridor starting this Monday. (Courtesy of the Presidency of the Dominican Republic) Public transportation in Santo Domingo is experiencing a significant change from this Monday, with the implementation of an integrated fare of 35 Dominican pesos (about 0.60 dollars) for users of the 27 de Febrero Corridor. The measure, announced by the Metropolitan Bus Services Operator (OMSA), aims to simplify payment and facilitate mobility for thousands of people in the Dominican capital, integrating different modes of mass transit under a single fare. The new fare, officially implemented on August 10, allows passengers to transfer between OMSA buses, the Santo Domingo Metro, and the Cable Car without additional charges, as long as the entire trip is completed within a 90-minute period. This fare integration scheme represents progress in the modernization of the urban mobility system, according to OMSA spokespersons. Payment of the fare can be made through electronic options, such as the Metro Card, SDGO card, and contactless bank cards from Visa and Mastercard brands. For those without these means, an alternative cash payment option has been enabled, exclusively with coins and for the exact amount, deposited into a metal box installed on the buses. It is important to note that, although the cash modality will be available for a limited time, it does not include the possibility of receiving change nor does it allow the use of the integration benefit for transfers to the Metro. OMSA has enabled free transfers between buses, the Santo Domingo Metro, and the Cable Car within a 90-minute window. (Photo courtesy of the Presidency of the Dominican Republic) According to OMSA authorities, users employing electronic cards will access the integrated fare, facilitating transit between different modes of transportation without making additional payments, as long as the established time interval is respected. For those opting for contactless bank cards, integration will work in the OMSA–Metro direction, while the reverse direction will maintain the usual payment. The modernization process not only involves adjusting the fare but also expanding the fleet. From the same Monday, more articulated units with a capacity for 160 passengers and rigid buses for 90 users have been added to the 27 de Febrero Corridor to meet increasing demand and improve travel comfort. Authorities assure that adopting this single fare is part of a broader effort to strengthen the Greater Santo Domingo Integrated Transport System. By centralizing payment and simplifying access, the goal is to encourage public transportation use and reduce waiting and transfer times for passengers. OMSA is implementing free trips for seniors over 65 years old, benefiting 2.5% of passengers with a specific subsidy. (Courtesy: Government of the Dominican Republic) The implementation of this scheme responds to the need to adapt the urban transport system to the city’s new dynamics, where demand for practical and economical solutions is constantly increasing. Fare integration, besides optimizing resources, contributes to greater connectivity between different corridors and lines of transportation. OMSA has announced that, as the transition progresses, operational adjustments will be made to improve the user experience and ensure efficiency and safety standards. The organization invites citizens to familiarize themselves with the new payment methods and take advantage of the benefits of integration, while closely monitoring the system’s operation during the first weeks under the new fare. Meanwhile, public transportation authorities remain open to receiving comments and suggestions from users to continue improving the service and adapting it to the needs of the Santo Domingo population.