INIT, STA Introduce Contactless Payments

Spokane Transit Authority (STA) has implemented contactless debit and credit card payments in collaboration with INIT, according to INIT's news release.

In addition to STA’s Connect cards and cash, riders can use credit or debit cards and digital cards in their mobile wallets to pay for bus fares. 

With INIT real-time fare validators located onboard STA buses, passengers can tap their card or scan their barcode, and ride. 

"The convenience of our Connect system is now even better with contactless payments," said Carly Cortright, STA customer service officer. “We are thrilled with the adoption rate of Connect and are excited to offer our customers another option to make riding the bus even easier.” 

STA Contactless Payments Help Riders

STA added that it encourages riders to use a Connect card where they can manage their own accounts by registering online. They have the freedom to add funds, employ an autoload option, view their ride history, and check their existing balance via the account website and mobile app.

The mobile app enables riders to establish a virtual card (eConnect) and pay their fare using a timed barcode. A Connect card offers the benefit of monthly fare capping, in addition to daily fare capping.

In the first six months following STA’s introduction of the Connect fare system in 2022, mobile and smart card payments obtained a 54% adoption rate among riders.

STA marks the fourth contactless open payment system by INIT in the United States, following Portland (Oregon), Grand Rapids (Michigan), and Tampa (Florida.) In 2023, Nashville (Tennessee) is expected to join the ranks as the next INIT-built open payment project.