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Introduction to the new payment system
Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) is on the brink of a significant transformation in how riders pay for their transit fares. Since the gradual rollout of the electronic fare payment system began in 2022, the city is now testing the Arc open-payment system, which promises to revolutionize the transit experience for users.
With the completion of hardware upgrades, riders will soon be able to pay fares effortlessly by tapping their credit or debit cards, or using digital wallets. This shift not only modernizes the payment process but also enhances security for all users.
Convenience at your fingertips
Sarah Feldman, ETS’ director of transit planning, ridership, and revenue, emphasized the importance of this upgrade in providing greater convenience and flexibility for Edmontonians. Currently, transit users can load money onto their Arc cards through various methods, including credit cards, debit cards, or cash, either online, by phone, or at vending machines and service centers.
For those who don’t frequently use transit, options like 90-minute or 24-hour tickets are available, ensuring that everyone can access the system without hassle.
Modernizing fare payment: A long-overdue change
City Councilor Michael Janz, representing Ward Papastew, expressed his enthusiasm for the modernization of fare payments, stating that it is “long overdue.” He highlighted the excitement surrounding the flexibility that comes with the new payment options.
Imagine being out with friends, deciding to take public transit, but realizing you forgot your bus pass or don’t have coins. With the new tap-to-pay feature, such inconveniences will be a thing of the past, allowing for spontaneous transit trips without the worry of carrying cash or passes.
Ensuring safety and reliability
To guarantee that the open payment system is safe, secure, and reliable, the city is conducting thorough internal and external testing. This assessment focuses on functionality, usability, compatibility, and accessibility, aiming to resolve any potential issues before the technology is made available to the public.
As the payment system evolves, so too does the approach of transit peace officers, who now utilize scanners to verify fare payments. If a card is scanned within the last 90 minutes, the fare is considered valid; otherwise, it may lead to fare evasion penalties.
Looking ahead
As the city prepares for the full rollout of the open payment system, more information will be shared in the coming months. This initiative not only represents a significant leap forward for Edmonton’s transit system but also aligns with the expectations of a tech-savvy generation that values convenience and efficiency. With these advancements, ETS is set to enhance the overall transit experience, making it more accessible and user-friendly for all riders.
