SEPTA debuts fare payment system pilot

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) yesterday launched a pilot of its new "Key" fare payment system.

The launch marks the start of the agency's "early adopter" phase, which is aimed at enabling SEPTA to begin sharing the benefits of its fare modernization initiative with the public while continuing work toward system-wide implementation. During the phase, up to 10,000 riders can obtain an instant SEPTA Key card with the purchase of a weekly or monthly pass.

In addition, all existing methods of fare payment — such as tokens, paper transfers, tickets and magnetic stripe passes — will be available. The agency will provide advanced public notice before any of these forms of payment are phased out.

When fully implemented, all riders will be able to use SEPTA Key branded cards or other contactless payment devices to purchase rides.

"The SEPTA Key will bring long-needed upgrades to the authority's fare payment and collection system," said SEPTA Chair Pasquale Deon Sr.