Madison Metro Transit launches tap to ride fare system

Metro Transit, the primary provider of bus services throughout the US city of Madison and its surrounding suburbs, has introduced a next-generation fare payment system across its entire network.

The system, which also applies to the new bus rapid transit (BRT) service, is designed to make public transportation in Madison faster, simpler and more convenient for all riders.

Flexible payment experience

The system introduces account-based ticketing (ABT) through the new Metro Fast Fare Card smart cards, ensuring a seamless and flexible payment experience for all users who no longer need to select their fare or purchase a pass before boarding. Instead, they simply tap and ride. The cards are linked to online accounts, allowing users to easily manage and reload their accounts wherever they are, eliminating the need to wait in line or use cash, and delivering a contactless, convenient way to pay for transit.

To reduce dwell times, onboard validators have been installed across the Metro Transit fleet to facilitate quicker boarding. Regular buses feature two validators, while the new BRT buses are equipped with three, enabling multi-door boarding. More than 400 validators were installed throughout the Metro Transit network, significantly enhancing the rider experience. Cash will not be accepted onboard BRT services – streamlining the payment process.

“The introduction of this state-of-the-art fare payment system marks a new generation in the evolution of Madison’s public transit system”

Riders simply tap their smart cards when boarding to pay to ride, with fare capping ensuring they never pay more than $5 per day, $16.25 per week, or $65 per month no matter how often they ride. Fare capping improves fare equity by ensuring all riders, regardless of income, have access to affordable transportation without the need to pay upfront for period passes.

Additionally, a simplified reduced fare cap will be available for youth, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income passengers, making transit more accessible to all. BRT platforms are equipped with ticket vending machines (TVMs), where riders can reload their Metro Fast Fare Cards using their payment cards or cash, or purchase single ride and one-day passes at BRT station ticket machines.