SEPTA Introduces Contactless Payment for Bus, Trolley, and Train Rides
SEPTA, the transportation authority for the Philadelphia area, is set to launch a new program that enables riders to pay for their bus, trolley, and train rides using contactless payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. Starting from this Friday, commuters will have the convenience of using their smartphones, smartwatches, or physical bank cards to pay for their fares.
SEPTA’s new program will be available across various modes of transportation, including city and suburban buses, trolleys, the Market-Frankford Line, the Broad Street Line, and the Norristown High Speed Line. This move aims to provide commuters with a seamless payment experience and improve overall efficiency.
When boarding a vehicle or passing through a turnstile, riders will simply need to tap their preferred contactless bank card to pay for their fare. The cost will be equivalent to SEPTA’s Travel Wallet, including two free transfers when using the same card. This attractive feature ensures that riders continue to enjoy the benefits of SEPTA’s existing fare structure while embracing the added convenience of contactless payment.
One of the primary advantages of implementing contactless payment is the reduction in boarding time during peak commuter hours. By eliminating the need for physical tickets or cash transactions, SEPTA can expedite the boarding process, minimizing delays and optimizing travel time.
For riders utilizing a reduced fare program, SEPTA has also made provisions for them. They can load their Travel Wallet onto their Key card using their bank card, further enhancing the accessibility and ease of the system for all commuters.
To ensure a smooth payment experience, SEPTA advises riders to remove their payment option from their wallet and ensure that the correct card is being charged, avoiding any potential “card clash” issues.
Under the new contactless payment system, riders will see a single charge at the end of each day, encompassing the total cost of their trips. This consolidated billing approach simplifies the payment process, making it easier for riders to track and manage their expenses.
While the initial launch covers buses, trolleys, and selected train lines, SEPTA has plans to expand the contactless payment program to include Regional Rail by early 2024. This phased implementation demonstrates SEPTA’s commitment to continuously enhancing the commuter experience and embracing modern payment technologies.
SEPTA’s new contactless payment program marks a significant milestone in the evolution of public transit fare systems. By leveraging the convenience of smartphones, smartwatches, and bank cards, SEPTA is creating a more seamless and efficient travel experience for its riders. This move is expected to benefit both daily commuters and occasional riders, ultimately contributing to the overall positive experience of using public transportation in the Philadelphia area.