N.J. Transit expands contactless ticketing system

New Jersey Transit (NJ Transit) expanded its "contactless" payment system to three additional bus routes. Riders can now simply wave or tap their credit or debit cards on twice as many routes, including buses traveling to different zones in the system.

This new payment system is now available on buses covering six different routes, including travel into New York with payments based on distance or "zones" travelled as part of the program.

ACS, A Xerox Company, and NJ Transit first launched a three-route pilot in 2010. The system eliminates the need for waiting in line at ticket machines and counters, allowing riders to pay and board faster.

ACS installed the system and will maintain and service all card readers, terminals and equipment, as well as host the payment platform to process transactions. ACS also handles financial management for this project.

NJ Transit is also evaluating using a unique payment system for their customers with disabilities. They will be working with a select number of riders to demonstrate the viability of a rubberized wristband with an embedded contactless payment chip. These customers can wave or tap their PayPass-enabled wristband at bus readers and airport faregates for convenient access, eliminating the need to handle a card or device such as a key fob to pay for their fares.

Also, at Penn Station in New York City, NJ Transit riders can now pay with a wave or tap of their card at ticket vending machines and ticket windows. NJ Transit also plans to work with ACS to expand this payment option at the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

Contactless cards will continue to be accepted at faregates at the Newark Liberty International Airport and three bus routes (6, 80, 87), as well as the three new routes (43, 81, 120).