BART says new gates cut fare evasion. Mission data suggests otherwise.

BART's new fare gates, launched with a $90 million investment, aimed to reduce fare evasion across the Bay Area transit system. Data reveals an 11% increase in entries and exits at West Oakland station from January to June 2024 compared to the previous year. However, Mission District stations, 16th and 24th Streets, experienced lower growth rates of 2. 3% and 3. 2%, respectively, during the same period.

BART spokesperson James Allison noted a decrease in reported fare evasion from 25% to 17% among riders, suggesting some success. While some stations, like Pittsburg Center, reported a 6% rise in paid exits shortly after the gates' installation, concerns remain about increased aggression among fare evaders. An anonymous BART agent highlighted instances of aggressive behavior among those attempting to evade fares. Gloria Lopez, a rider, expressed safety concerns regarding individuals following closely through the gates. The agency plans to further analyze data to assess the gates' effectiveness in deterring fare evasion.