According to reporting by Mid Hudson News, a new proposal is circulating in Dutchess County that would eliminate fares on the county’s public bus system. On its face, the idea is simple: make buses free. But as with most things in government, the real question is not whether something is free — it is who ultimately pays.
City of Poughkeepsie Eighth Ward Councilman Daniel Atonna urged the Dutchess County Legislature to consider a fare-free transit model, pointing to neighboring counties that have already adopted similar systems. Currently, riders pay $1.75 per trip. The proposal would remove that cost entirely.
Supporters argue that eliminating fares would ease burdens on working residents and increase ridership. It is an appealing concept. Public transportation can be a lifeline for many — seniors, students, workers without reliable vehicles. No one disputes that mobility matters.
But public policy requires more than good intentions.
Mid Hudson News also reported that immediately following the legislative session, three buses arrived at the county transit hub carrying just four passengers total — two departing empty. That snapshot raises a legitimate question: Is the primary barrier to ridership the fare itself, or are deeper service and demand issues at play?
When government labels something “free,” it does not eliminate cost. It redistributes it. Taxpayers absorb it. That may be justified — but it must be examined honestly. What would the lost fare revenue total annually? How would it be replaced? Would service expand or remain the same? And would eliminating fares materially increase ridership enough to justify the subsidy?
County Executive Sue Serino declined comment, noting that no formal proposal has been submitted. For now, the idea remains a concept — but one that deserves serious scrutiny.
Public transit is important. So is fiscal responsibility. Before Dutchess County embraces the promise of “free,” it would be wise to examine the price.
The Valley Viewpoint 