Metro is offering information about fare subsidies online but has cancelled in-person events. (photo by Edwin Folven)

Metro has announced that all in-person events to register riders for reduced fare programs have been cancelled due to the surge in COVID-19 cases.

The transportation agency had sought to register people for the programs prior to the resumption of fare collection on buses throughout Los Angeles County on Monday, Jan. 10.

Metro suspended fare collection and implemented rear door boarding-only during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mask wearing will continue to be required on Metro buses and trains and front door boarding-only boarding will also resume on Jan. 10.

People who qualify for the Low Income Fare is Easy program, also known as LIFE, can still apply online by visiting metro.net/riding/life.  The program offers discounts that can be applied toward the purchase of weekly and monthly transit passes on Metro buses and any transit agencies participating in the LIFE program. Those who are new to the program will receive a free 90-day pass valid on Jan. 10. After the free pass expires, riders can load the LIFE discount fare onto a TAP card.

To prepare for the resumption of fare collections, the city of West Hollywood is encouraging seniors and residents with disabilities to apply for the city’s subsidized Senior/Disabled Bus Pass Program. The city provides free bus passes to West Hollywood residents who are eligible for Metro’s Senior/Disabled Reduced Fare TAP Card. West Hollywood residents can choose to get a 30-day Metro pass or $20 in stored value at no cost. The city covers 100% of the bus pass cost for eligible residents. For information, visit weho.org/services/public-transportation-transit-options/bus-pass-subsidy.