Jonesboro transit agency outlines route expansions, fare-capping and tap-to-pay rollout

Jonesboro city staff presented proposed changes to the GoJo transit system on July 7, outlining plans to convert pilot routes into regular service, expand coverage into the Hilltop/Greensboro Village and Highland Drive corridors, and introduce tap-to-pay fare cards with automatic fare capping.

The presenter said the goals are to improve reliability, expand coverage and ensure long-term financial sustainability. The proposal would make several pilot routes permanent and add service to neighborhoods the agency says have been underserved. The presenter told the council the change should reduce waits and improve access to education, employment and health care for riders.

The transit presentation also described a shift away from prepaid paper passes. Under the proposed system, riders would use a fare card or smartphone app; the system would track trips and stop charging a rider once they reach the cost threshold equivalent to a weekly or monthly pass (fare capping). "No rider pays more for their usage of the vehicle than what they would have if they were using a pass," the presenter said, adding that many riders who could not purchase passes up front would likely see savings.

Staff described hardware upgrades at sheltered stops: real-time display screens, route-colored RGB lights that pulse as buses approach, and new signage tied to the transit app. The presenter said these features will show route arrivals, be usable by visually impaired riders and integrate with app notifications about vehicle capacity.

Council members asked whether ticket purchases would be available online and how the proposed rates compared with similarly sized cities. The presenter said smartphone-based tickets and QR codes would be supported and that the proposed fares are competitive with peer agencies; the presenter noted some jurisdictions are also reviewing fare changes in response to rising operating costs.

The presentation announced a public comment period open through July 31 and a public hearing set for July 15 at the youth center, 1421 W. Nettleton, starting at 4 p.m. Staff asked residents to submit feedback to gojofeedback@jonesboroughar.gov with the subject line "2026 system updates."