Just as the province prepares to launch its “smart” fare card on GTA transit agencies next month, a brand new wave of technology could make it even easier to pay fares.
In May, the Presto pass debuts on three GO rail lines plus Burlington and Oakville Transit. The cost of each trip is deducted from a balance stored on the card.
In 2010 and 2011, Presto will become valid across the GTA but at only a few subway stations.
The TTC has delayed joining Presto for cost reasons but can now take advantage of the latest technological advances. Both Chicago and New York have been looking closely at how debit and credit cards or even cell phones might be used to pay at subway gates and on buses.
With the right technology and computer systems in place, U.S.-based expert Paul Korczak says transit agencies could save money by allowing riders to deduct fares from bank or other accounts — without having to use a special transit card. “Good customer service is about choice,” he says.
Presto’s David Smith tells In Transit, “We want to focus … on all payment mechanisms.”
The TTC needs several years and many millions of dollars to install new readers across the system. When a design is chosen it could possibly accept the Presto card as well as other payment types. Such devices are not to be confused with the anti-fraud fareboxes currently being tested on some TTC vehicles.
Not everything will change with new technology. Unlimited-use passes ought to remain available, though a points or “miles” scheme may be introduced. And you’ll still be able to use coins.
Despite wishful thinking, fare disputes won’t disappear either. People could try to pay student or senior fares for which they don’t qualify, or simply ignore a machine that says their pass is no good.
Expect to continue to pay extra to cross between 905 and 416. New cards or technology do not necessarily mean cheaper rates — even as they re-open the debate about fare-by-distance on the TTC.
Also, removing the need for subway collectors is no excuse to banish staff from the system. For customer service and safety, we probably want at least one person at each station, ready to help riders.
