The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) announced that it is rolling out new ways to pay to provide an easier, more convenient, and modernized rider experience in the greater Boston area.
Beginning on Aug. 1, riders will be able to use contactless payments onboard buses, Green Line trolleys, Mattapan Line trolleys, and at all gated subway stations.
MBTA’s new initiative – Tap to Ride – will provide better flexibility and allow riders to pay by tapping a contactless credit/debit card, phone with a mobile wallet, or watch on fare readers.
“Transitioning to this contactless system is a part of the next generation of transportation that our riders deserve. This will allow them to save time and make it easier for riders and travelers to pay and board as they use the system,” said state Transportation Secretary and MBTA CEO Monica Tibbits-Nutt.
MBTA said it partnered with Cubic Transportation Systems for the upcoming launch of its contactless payment options – which will save riders time instead of having to purchase and reload a CharlieCard.
“I’ve seen directly at other transit properties and heard firsthand from many riders about the importance of contactless payment and how it would greatly enhance the experience of using mass transit,” said MBTA General Manager and CEO Phillip Eng. “I’m proud of the progress made to deliver this important amenity for our riders, bringing our payment system for our bus and subway system into the 21st century. This lays the groundwork for the fare payment system of the future, incorporating our fare structure including the recently approved Income-Eligible Reduced Fares.”
Riders in reduced fare programs – such as senior, student, and TAP – will have the option to link their benefits to their contactless card, phone, or watch, MBTA said.
Riders with weekly or monthly passes or those who would like to continue to use their CharlieCards will not be impacted by the Aug. 1 change. The current ways to pay will remain the same.
“The MBTA team’s steadfast dedication to bring this initiative to fruition along with our partner Cubic, worked collaboratively, solving challenges to demonstrate our commitment to the public,” Eng added. “I thank our riders for their patience as we continue to build a system that they can rely on and be proud of.”
