NEW PAYMENT TECHNOLOGY INFORMATION SESSION: APRIL 1

Want to learn more about SEPTA's New Payment Technologies Project? Please attend the public information session scheduled for April 1, 2011 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the SEPTA Mezzanine (1234 Market St).

This forum will provide an opportunity to hear about the Authority's plans to replace its outdated fare collection system with "smart," state-of-the-art technology, featuring a variety of payment choices, including contactless - cards, key fobs, and other devices equipped with microchips. With this new payment technology, customers will be able to experience the convenience and security of paying fares by simply holding or tapping the new fare media close to electronic readers located in turnstiles and fare boxes.

Waiting in lines to buy tokens or replace passes will become a chore of the past with the introduction of pre-paid cards that can be automatically replenished, debit or credit cards and mobile devices equipped with the contactless chip technology.

In looking to future of New Payment Technology, SEPTA General Manager, Joe Casey, said "the fare payment project is a cornerstone in the Authority's efforts to improve customer service and riding convenience, and we're very excited to host this public session, provide project details, and gain rider feedback. People use bank cards for all kinds of purchases today, why not on transit."

The new payment project will be designed and installed by a technology vendor the Authority expects to select later this year.