Recent changes to transit passes will make it easier for riders to transfer to different zones on busses and trolleys.
Riders with a ConnectCard no longer have to inform an operator or fare collector that they want to buy a transfer ticket. ConnectCard users can now use the stored money on their card to purchase a transfer ticket, making the process totally automatic.
“With the introduction of automated electronic transfers and single-trip tickets, we hope to meet the needs of a wider range of riders,” said Megan Anthony from the Port Authority of Allegheny County.
ConnectCards became available in 2012 to create a quicker, more seamless way for riders to use public transportation. They allow frequent riders the ability to put money on their card, via the internet or a pay station, and simply scan the card when boarding a bus or trolley.
The inclusion of transfer passes is yet another step in the progression of the ConnectCard. According to Anthony, transfer tickets will no longer be needed. Now the time of a rider’s first payment is recorded when he or she scans their card on a farebox.
“If the rider taps for another one-zone ride within three hours, the transfer fee ($1 for full fare, 50 cents for reduced fare) will be deducted,” Anthony said.
The transfer will be effective for any one-zone ride inside the three-hour window, thus eliminating the need for paper transfer slips or notifying a fare collector.
ConnecTix are similar to ConnectCards but were previously only available as weekly passes and 10-trip blocks. Now, ConnecTix can be purchased at the same machines ConnectCards are puschased from.
Single trip and single trip with transfer ConnecTix also became available last week.
“These ConnecTix are available for both one-zone and two-zone rides and will expire after 30 days of purchase,” Anthony said.
The changes to the ConnectCards and ConnecTix are part of an effort to put an emphasis on public transportation and “make riding easier and more convenient for daily and occasional riders,” according to Anthony.
