TransLink cracking down on fare evaders as part of cost-efficiency push [Video]

Faced with a massive funding gap, TransLink has launched a crackdown on fare cheats – an effort the company hopes will prevent $5 million in fare evasion annually.

During the enforcement blitz, passengers can expect to see more “high-visibility” fare patrols both on transit vehicles and at transit hubs, TransLink said in a news release Tuesday.

Fare evaders can face a $173 ticket if caught.

“Transit fares are an integral part of how we pay for transit services in Metro Vancouver,” TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn said in a statement.

“It’s unfair that some customers who are able to pay are choosing not to, and this undermines our finances and our ability to operate the transit system.”

Free or subsidized transit passes are available for those in need through the B.C. Bus Pass Program, and additional charitable organizations such as the Homeless Services Association of B.C.

TransLink said the new crackdown is already underway, with help from eight new security …