By Phil Newman
Transit officials have begun the test run of a new one-pass-fits-all pass not just for buses and subways, but for more types of transportation in the New York City metro area.
It is the MasterCard PayPass that allows riders access to transit with just a tap — no swipe necessary.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority said the pilot program began June 1 and runs until Nov. 30 on select train and bus routes in New York City and New Jersey.
It is a step toward a universal pass for all modes of transit in the area rather than a separate card for each, a system long in operation in London.
For example, commuters transferring from a Port Authority Trans-Hudson train to the New York City subway will need only one type of payment.
Multiple bus and subway lines across New York City and New Jersey are taking part in the trial, including subway locations on the Lexington Avenue line from 138th Street in the Bronx through Borough Hall in Brooklyn, bus routes — M14, M23, M79, M86, M101, M102, M103 and BXM7 — PATH stations excluding the Christopher and 9th Street stations and three NJ Transit bus routes — 6, 80 and 87.
“The technology we’re testing will make life easier for our customers and help reduce our cost of doing business at the same time,” said MTA Chairman Jay Walder. “By using an open network, we’ll break down regional barriers and let people travel across the region with a card that’s already sitting in their wallets. We’re thrilled to be working with the Port Authority, NJ Transit and MasterCard to test these innovations for our customers.”
Straphangers who wish to take part in the test drive of the new transit access may apply for a “Tap & Go” access by consulting mta.info.
Reach contributing writer Philip Newman by e-mail at timesledgernews@cnglocal.com or phone at 718-260-4536.
