What is Flamingo Fares?

Flamingo Fares Tampa Bay brings a new payment system to the region, simplifying transit use. It allows a rider to pay using a re-loadable smartcard or smartphone app, which can be used across participating transit agencies. Counties currently participating in Flamingo Fares: Hernando (TheBus), Hillsborough (HART/TECO Line Streetcar System), Pasco (PCPT), Pinellas (PSTA/Jolley Trolley), and Sarasota (SCAT).

What’s this “testing” phase?

Partner agencies are selecting riders to help us test the system. These riders are being selected by our technology contractor and will be required to provide feedback about their experience.

When will Flamingo Fares be available for everyone else?

We are planning to launch the full program to all riders in 2019.

Can I share my card or app?

No. Since Flamingo Fares is account-based, each rider must have their own card or app.

Do I need to show ID for reduced fare?

Yes. If you qualify for a reduced fare, please always have your approved ID ready to show the Operator upon boarding.

What is Fare Capping?

Instead of buying passes in advance, you earn them as you go. Simply load value on your Flamingo Fares card or app and pay as you board the bus or trolley. Board twice in one day with your Flamingo Fares card or phone app, and you’ll earn a day pass (the amount you pay is “capped,” so you ride free the rest of the day). Once you reach the cost of a monthly pass, you can ride free for the rest of the month (when you pay with Flamingo Fares). So, you get the savings of a bus pass, without the commitment or the upfront cost.

• Always get the best fare
• Savings for frequent riders
• No upfront costs
• Pay only for the trips you take

Here’s an example: George loads $10 on his Flamingo Fares. When he boards the bus in the morning, the cost of one cash fare is deducted from his account. At the transfer center, he boards another bus and the cost of one more cash fare is deducted. Later on the way home, George boards and his rides on the way home are free because his fare was “capped” at the cost of a day pass, which he reached earlier in the day.

What’s happening to traditional bus passes?

You’ll see magnetic stripe or flash passes phased out over the coming year. About six months after Flamingo Fares launches, we’ll stop selling old passes, and after a year we’ll stop accepting them on board. Don’t worry, we’ll give you lots of notice and warning!