The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) announced it is seeking proposals from experienced vendors to develop, implement, and maintain its fare payment system as part of SEPTA Key 2.0, according to its news release.

“SEPTA Key 2.0 will help ensure that we stay up-to-date with constantly-evolving fare payment technology,” said SEPTA CEO Leslie S. Richards. “This is a critical investment in our customers, and an important part of SEPTA Forward, SEPTA’s strategic plan.”

The agency said the current SEPTA Key data-processing software is due for an upgrade.

“We have learned a lot from the first phase of SEPTA Key,” said Richards. “Our goal is to build on the strengths of SEPTA Key by unifying fare policy and promoting affordability, equity, and ridership growth.”

With SEPTA Key 2.0, riders can expect to see the following upgrades:

• New and better options to pay: Using a smartphone; contactless debit or credit card; or wearable device.

• Convenience of paying for multiple riders at the same time with the same fare media.

• Expanding the retail network to provide riders with more locations to purchase fares.

• Automatic, real-time updates to customer accounts and fare media.

• Integration with regional partners and third-party-issued fare media.

• Flexible fare structure to make it easier for customers to obtain the best fare possible.

• Modernizing the website, mobile app, and communication channels.

A customer outreach campaign was conducted to help guide the direction of SEPTA Key 2.0.

Interested parties must submit their proposals by July 14.