Cunningham Backs Fare Reinstatement

Tucson City Councilman Paul Cunningham, who once championed the city’s fare-free bus policy, is now calling for its reversal—after 18 months of unmet promises and rising safety concerns. Once convinced it would help working families and the disabled, he now hears reports of drug use, harassment, and violence at stops, with drivers citing unsafe conditions. He admits fares didn’t cause homelessness or addiction, but argues they’ve eroded public trust and safety. His new plan? Reintroduce fares—but with deeply discounted or free passes for seniors, students, veterans, the disabled, and low-income riders. He sees it as a way to rebuild a reliable, welcoming transit system while connecting vulnerable communities with essential services. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/a0e178699012819c