DART unveils new advanced fare collection system

Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) has chosen Vix Technology to implement a new, contactless fare payment system.

The new system will enable commuters to pay and travel on DART's buses and light-rail trains using NFC-enabled smartphones, third-party or agency-issued transit cards, or EMV contactless cards, said DART and Vix officials in a press release.

The five-year contract between DART and Vix has an estimated value of $30 million.

The system will be delivered through Vix's eO^™ (easy and open) product: an account-based, open architecture and PCI-compliant fare collection platform.

"The partnership with Vix Technology will put our region on the map with some of the most advanced fare collection systems in the world, providing a seamless and more user-friendly experience," said DART's Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer David Leininger.

Unlike card-based systems of the past, the account-based system will allow riders to use a payment type that works best for them, DART officials said.

"Account-based systems are the way forward and we are excited to be with DART on this project," said Vix Technology Chief Executive Officer Steve Gallagher.