Metro News Release

For immediate release: July 12, 2007

Metro to upgrade fare card machines

Metro fare card machines would dispense regular and cheaper paper-based SmarTrip cards, and it would be easier for riders to pay with credit cards under a plan approved today by a Metro Board committee.

The Metro planning and development committee agreed to spend nearly $25 million to upgrade fare machines in 86 rail stations over the next four years. A final vote is scheduled for July 26.

All of the more than 900 fare card machines will accept dollar coins and the new $5 bills by early next year. The fare machines on Metrobuses already accept the coins.

Some 550 machines could dispense plastic and paper-based, disposable SmarTrip cards within a few years, and Metro will more than double the number of machines that accept credit cards. SmarTrip cards currently are sold at stations with parking lots, sales offices and via the Internet. Riders must pay to exit parking lots with the special plastic cards, or they can use credit cards at a limited number of lots.

"The technology is still being tested for the paper-based SmarTrip cards. They would cost less than the current $5 charge but have a shorter life. We believe some riders, such as tourists may prefer this type of card," said Dave Couch, Director of Infrastructure Renewal Projects.

Touch screen displays in the fare card machine also will be tested in six machines at major stations. Worn out parts also will be replaced in all the fare machines.

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News release issued at 12:00 am, July 12, 2007.