- Beginning February 1, 2026, Wake Forest will introduce a tier-based fare rate schedule for Go Wake Forest.
- Fares will be based on distance traveled (for single rider bookings, plus $1.25 for each additional passenger), along with a reduced fare program for qualified riders.
- Fare discounts will be offered to riders who complete an eligibility screening application process for one of several qualifiers.
WAKE FOREST, NC - In October 2024, the Town of Wake Forest introduced “Go Wake Forest,” a ridesharing microtransit service that connects riders directly from their doorstep to anywhere in Wake Forest’s jurisdiction and portions of Raleigh’s Wakefield neighborhood.
Since its introduction, Go Wake Forest has been provided to riders at no cost. Beginning Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, the Town will introduce the following tier-based fare rate schedule based on distance traveled (for single rider bookings, plus $1.25 for each additional passenger), along with a reduced fare program for qualified riders:
- 0-2 miles - $2.50 fare, $1.25 discounted fare
- 2-4 miles - $3.50 fare, $1.75 discounted fare
- 4+ miles - $4.50 fare, $2.25 discounted fare
Fare credits will be available for purchase through the Go Wake Forest smart phone app, over the phone via the Go Wake Forest hotline at 984-342-2319, or in person at Wake Forest Town Hall Customer Service, 301 S. Brooks St.
Fare discounts will be offered to riders who complete an eligibility screening application process for the following qualifiers:
- Age 65+
- Income status, specifically individuals enrolled in certain income-eligible programs with the intent of encompassing households earning 50% or less of the Wake County Area Median Income as defined by the Department of Housing & Urban Development’s standards.
- Having a mobility-inhibiting disability
Specific details on the application process will be provided in the coming days.
Prior to the launch of Go Wake Forest, officials agreed that all rides would be fare-free to encourage ridership and offset inconveniences experienced by riders during the initial phase. The strategy worked as Go Wake Forest experienced a substantial increase in ridership and cost efficiencies compared to the Wake Forest Loop.
In fact, ridership grew at such a substantial rate the Town was forced to expand capacity on three separate occasions to keep pace. These expansions made the system more efficient and reliable, allowing for capacity to catch up with demand. However, the system’s improvements induced even more ridership demand forcing the Town to again face capacity challenges as more people chose to use Go Wake Forest.
Since ridership demand shows no indication of slowing down, officials decided the current fare-free service model was not sustainable. By transitioning to a fare-based model with qualifying discounts for riders that meet certain verified criteria, officials believe Go Wake Forest can raise revenues for service improvements and free up capacity for riders who rely on and utilize the service for everyday needs.
For more information about Go Wake Forest, visit https://bit.ly/GoWakeForest or email Long Range Planning Manager Brad West at bwest@wakeforestnc.gov.