OGDEN — Public transit in northern Utah may be fare free in the future — pending the results of a study already underway.

As the Regional Zero-Fare Study moves into its third month, it is still in the initial phase, looking at opportunities and challenges.

In addition to reviewing the Utah Transit Authority’s financial trends, rider profile, fare policy and fare usage, much still needs to be done before they can move the study forward to the zero-fare evaluation phase including a complete literature review, three case studies and stakeholder engagement.

In the coming phases, zero-fare alternatives will be evaluated alongside operational, financial and community effects. Decision makers will reportedly be informed on the pros and cons of zero-fare alternatives.

According to a transit study presentation by Julie Bjorn, with the Wasatch Front Regional Council, Free Fare February produces positive outcomes related to ridership, safety, customer experience and funding support.

However, the largest concerns for moving to zero-fare transit are said to be related to funding and safety. The study will, ideally, provide ways to replace lost revenue and gauge transit values of stakeholders from across the service area.

“Transit is critical to the future and success of our region,” said Andrew Gruber, WFRC executive director, during the UTA Board of Trustees meeting on Wednesday.

A final report and presentation on the results of the study are expected  before the end of the year. Attempts to reach a member of the project team were not immediately successful.

Newsletter