Spencer, Iowa — The transit agency serving northwest Iowa is no longer accepting cash payments for rides.
RIDES Public Transit Authority officials tell us they are moving to a cashless system for all transportation. They say the new policy does not affect or change things like Elderbridge rides or waiver-funded trips. They tell us it’s strictly the removal of the opportunity to pay cash when an individual boards the bus for transport.
RIDES officials tell us that individuals must now either establish a My RIDES Account, use their existing My RIDES Account, or pay over the phone with a credit/debit card.
RIDES tells us their call center team will begin notifying individuals when a trip request is made, and drivers will be sharing this information as well.
The change was made this Monday.
RIDES tells us the change is a move towards efficiency and reduction in error. They say it also reduces driver-passenger contact during the pandemic.
If you have any questions, RIDES says you can call Andy, their “My RIDES Account” Coordinator and he will assist you with the process.
