PATH trains will begin offering a 50% discount to riders with disabilities, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey announced on Monday.
The discount rate matches the current program for seniors, which is half off a single one-way PATH fare.
PATH fares, without discounts, start at $3 per trip.
The Port Authority said anyone with a “qualifying disability” is eligible for the discount, including those who are blind or visually impaired, deaf or hard of hearing, have an ambulatory disability or loss of extremities, have a cognitive disability, have severe mental illness, or have another physical disability.
The agency said it requires specific documents to verify eligibility. The application process begins June 16.
The Port Authority said its board of commissioners approved the discount in December as part of its annual budget for 2025.
“We recognize that PATH is an essential part of the daily routines of countless New York and New Jersey residents, and especially so in the disability community where it expands access to jobs, education and opportunity,” said Port Authority Chair Kevin O’Toole. “We’re proud to work with the advocates and community partners who championed this program, marking another step toward making the PATH system an inclusive and practical option for all.”
Rick Cotton, Port Authority executive director, said the program will improve accessibility for PATH riders.
“Removing barriers and increasing accessibility remain a key focus in our efforts to improve the PATH passenger experience, particularly those who rely on public transit as a lifeline,” Cotton said. “We are committed to working with the disability community to put in place an application process for this new reduced fare program that is easy and user-friendly.”
How to apply
Riders can apply for the program by mail or in person starting June 16 at a PATH station or at the PATH’s reduced-fare application center at the Journal Square Transportation Center in Jersey City, NJ.
To apply by mail, applicants need a notarized application, a passport-size color photo, a copy of a valid government-issued identification, and one accepted form of documentation of their eligible disability.
Applicants who are applying in person are encouraged to make an appointment. Port Authority officials said applicants do not have to bring a passport photo or a notarized application.
Port Authority officials said that once approved for a reduced fare, riders will be issued a SmartLink card or can use their preferred contactless payment method.
The application, instructions, and more information about the program are available online at tappandride.com.
