The initial plan from JTA included integrating Connexion Plus into the existing Connexion paratransit service, effectively eliminating the choice for private rides. This proposal, however, met with significant resistance from both riders and advocates who value the flexibility of private options.

JTA officials argue that these changes are necessary to offset rising operational expenses and ensure the sustainability of the service. However, those who rely on Connexion Plus warn that the proposed fare hikes may render the service unaffordable, potentially leaving many without a vital means of transportation.

Jose Morales, the Director of Development for the Center for Independent Living, emphasized the widespread impact of these changes on the disabled community. At a city council meeting on Tuesday night, he passionately called on leaders to reconsider the fare modifications, highlighting the importance of maintaining accessible transportation options for all.

This ongoing debate unfolds as JTA holds a series of community meetings across Jacksonville to discuss the Fare Modification Pilot Program, which is slated to launch next month. As the discussions continue, the future of Connexion Plus remains uncertain, with stakeholders closely watching the developments.

This decision comes midway through two weeks of community meetings across the city on the JTA’s Fare Modification Pilot Program set to begin next month. 

“We hold these meetings to hear directly from our customers and adjust our plans based on what matters most to them,” JTA CEO Nat Ford said in a news release. “We heard you loud and clear. Your feedback helped shape a solution that preserves this valued service while allowing the JTA to responsibly manage costs.”

Under the proposed changes, Connexion Plus would cost $10 for the first 8 miles and $3.50 per mile after that. Currently, the rate is $6 for the first 15 miles and $2 for each additional mile.

According to JTA, the average Connexion Plus trip is 8 miles, and JTA would still be covering more than 75% of the cost of each ride.

However, that’s not the case for every rider. 

“I work full time. I live over 15 miles from my job, so it would cost me $320 a week to take transportation,” said Sharon Dykes, Connexion Plus rider.

Sharon Dykes and Angela Walker, both riders who expressed their concerns with the cost, are asking the city to provide oversight.

“I would ask that you work with JTA to come up with a reasonable solution to reducing the costs of the program,” said Dykes.

“Some of us have disabilities that will not allow us to be on shared rides. Some of us have disabilities where we’re in constant pain,” said Angela Walker, another rider.

“I thank JTA for changing it from being completely cut to now being an alternative, but hopefully they can make it a sustainable alternative for the individuals using the transit,” said Morales.

Jacksonville City Council Member Rahman Johnson has been hearing from residents and attended Monday night’s in-person JTA advisory committee meeting that lasted three hours.

“Over the last several days, my phone and inbox have been filled with one clear message: that Connexion Plus matters. This service is a lifeline,” said Johnson. 

Johnson says JTA will come present the proposal to the City Council Transportation Committee next week.

According to JTA, of the more than 7,900 Connexion customers, 52% use only Connexion. 32% percent use only Connexion Plus, and 16% ride both. In FY2025, Connexion logged 284,074 trips, whereas Connexion Plus logged 202,908 trips.

During the pilot, Connexion Plus customers will have a maximum of 40 trips available per month. 96% of Connexion Plus customers are under that threshold, with a customer average of 13 trips monthly. 

JTA’s six-month Fare Modification Pilot Program begins Feb. 1. Officials say data from the pilot will help determine the future of Connexion Plus.

The public can continue to provide feedback directly to the JTA on the comment form on the pilot webpage.