Fare System Modernization

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As ridership continues to increase, Metro is making major infrastructure investments to improve and modernize the customer experience, including updating fare system technology.

Metro will completely replace and upgrade all rail and bus payment systems over the next several years, as part of the Capital Improvement Program, providing customers with more options for contactless payment, faster transaction processing and improved customer reliability.

Faregate Barrier Review & Testing Project

We are taking action to decrease fare evasion and improve your commute. Effective November 17, 2022, we will begin testing modifications to our existing faregates aimed at reducing fare evasion. Read more.
Fare Evasion



Metrorail Faregate Replacement Project

In summer 2021, Metro kicked off a yearlong project to replace all faregates across the Metrorail system with modernized units that include enhanced safety features, larger displays, and faster processing.

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New Metro faregate



Metrobus Farebox Replacement Project

In 2023, Metro will begin replacing on-board bus fareboxes and garage equipment. The new bus fare collection system will feature larger, brighter displays, faster processing of bills and coins and continue to offer quick and contactless payment for SmarTrip and mobile customers.

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Metrobus Farebox Replacement Project



New Pay Station Project

Beginning fall 2021, Metro will replace all of its approximately 2,500 short-term parking meters with approximately 70 pay stations, providing customers with more convenient and modernized payment options, similar to modern pay stations being deployed on city streets.

New Pay Station Project