SEPTA to hike fares, use new technology:
Cards, smartphones to replace tokens, tickets
Mar. 16, 2013 10:48 PM
Written by Joann Loviglio, Associated Presshttp://www.courierpostonline.com/viewart/20130317/NEWS01/303170021/SEPTA-hike-fares-use-new-technologyPHILADELPHIA — The transit agency that serves Philadelphia and its suburbs announced its proposal Thursday for across-the-board fare hikes and details of a $200 million smart-card payment system slated to begin rolling out this summer.
No matter the mode of public transit, SEPTA commuters will soon be paying more to reach their destinations, but they'll be paying in a way SEPTA promises will be more convenient than the technologically outdated mode involving tokens, tickets and paper transfers.
"The ease of using smart-card technology ... is going to have huge positive benefits for our customers," Richard Burnfield, SEPTA chief financial officer, said at a news conference announcing the changes.
Among those benefits: no more waiting in line to buy passes and tokens, and easier replacement of lost or stolen passes that are registered with SEPTA, he said.
Weekly and monthly city passes with stickers designating the rider as male or female, an anti-fraud device that was long opposed by transgender commuters, are also being eliminated.
