It is a 25-year-old system that will disappear at the beginning of 2025. After having reduced aid for the Zap31 system ten years ago, which allows users to have prices on departmental tolls during home-work journeys, the Department of Haute-Garonne, announced the pure and simple end of this community-subsidized system. It was the president of the departmental council, Sébastien Vincini, who personally informed the beneficiaries in a letter dated 6 November.
Over 8,000 users out of 50,000 registered
According to Vinci data, of the 50,000 subscribers, only 8,000 currently use Zap31. More interesting than the Ulys electronic toll formula, this system allowed its beneficiary, for 1.50 euros per month, to pay 15% less on the preferential route around Toulouse from the 1st to the 22nd passage and a reduction of 80 % from 23rd to 44th pass.
The community justified this plan imposed by the “alarming financial situation” and the savings requested by the State within the framework of the finance law. There was talk of imposing savings of almost 5 billion euros on local authorities which could further penalize local finances already under pressure. Since then the government has watered down the wine, but the spirit has remained the same.
“Due to the collapse of the real estate market, the department’s budget was cut by 253 million euros in revenue in two years,” explains the departmental council of Haute-Garonne. In this constrained and imposed framework, the Department is forced to reduce its expenditure and make a total effort of 160 million euros when voting on our initial 2025 budget is actually a rule of thumb. However, local authorities are obliged to do so: operating expenses cannot exceed operating revenues. »
In his letter to subscribers, Sébastien Vincini assures “to support daily travel by promoting alternative solutions to the individual car or aimed at collective means of transport”, citing projects for the development of carpooling areas, the development of fast bicycle networks or of public transport in the metropolis of Toulouse, in particular with the extension of the metro network and the future RER metropolitan project.
How can communities adapt to the loss of subsidies from systems like Zap31 to promote sustainable transportation?
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our interview today. We’re joined by transportation expert Dr. Claire Beaumont, who has been following the developments of community-supported toll systems in France. Dr. Beaumont, thank you for being here.
Dr. Claire Beaumont: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss the changes happening with the Zap31 system.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The Department of Haute-Garonne has announced the end of the Zap31 system, which has been helping commuters for 25 years. What do you think led to this decision?
Dr. Beaumont: It seems that there are multiple factors at play. One significant issue is the decline in active users—out of 50,000 registered subscribers, only about 8,000 are regularly using the service. This drastic drop in usage likely influenced the decision-making process. Additionally, there may be budgetary constraints, as the department had already reduced aid for the system ten years ago.
Editor: That’s a valid point. It appears that the initial intent of the system—to provide subsidies for commuters—has not kept pace with usage or demand. How effective was the Zap31 system for those who did utilize it?
Dr. Beaumont: For the users who did take advantage of it, it offered significant savings. For just 1.50 euros a month, beneficiaries received a 15% reduction on tolls from their first to 22nd journey, and an impressive 80% off for journeys 23 to 44. This was quite appealing compared to the Ulys electronic toll system. However, it seems that the perceived value may not have been enough to retain a larger user base.
Editor: Given these figures, what are the implications of scrapping such a long-standing system for the community and commuters?
Dr. Beaumont: The end of the Zap31 system could lead to increased financial strain on commuters who relied on those toll reductions. Furthermore, it might discourage the use of public transportation or carpooling, which align with reduced emissions goals. If people find travel costs rising without the students’ subsidies, we could see a rise in solitary car travel—counterproductive to environmental efforts.
Editor: You mentioned environmental goals. In light of this change, what alternative solutions could be implemented to prioritize both commuter needs and sustainable transportation?
Dr. Beaumont: There are several avenues to explore! For starters, investing in more extensive public transportation services could relieve some pressure on individual drivers. Implementing flexible pricing strategies or discounts for carpooling and public transport users would also encourage more sustainable travel. Additionally, community feedback sessions could help tailor a new program more effectively to user needs.
Editor: Those strategies sound promising. how should the Department of Haute-Garonne communicate this transition to ensure that users feel heard and supported?
Dr. Beaumont: Effective communication is crucial. This means transparency about the reasons behind the ending of the system and offering alternative access solutions. Organizing town hall meetings to gather input, along with providing clear resources about other available options, would go a long way in ensuring users feel supported during this transition.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Beaumont, for your insights on this significant change in community transport policy. It’s a complex situation, and your expertise sheds light on the broader implications for commuters and sustainable travel.
Dr. Beaumont: Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing these critical issues with you, and I hope we see positive developments in the future for the commuters in Haute-Garonne.
Editor: Absolutely. We’ll continue to follow this story as it unfolds. Thank you again for joining us today!