Biz Briefs covers the latest supplier partnership news in the motorcoach and public transit industries.

In METRO's latest installment, we look at news in Orlando, Fla.,; Pennsylvania; and Toledo, Ohio. 

Florida’s LYNX Releases New, Enhanced Genfare Fare Payment System

Orlando, Fla.’s Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority (LYNX) is releasing a new and enhanced LYNX Paw Pass mobile app by Genfare. 

In the new LYNX Paw Pass app by Genfare, customers will see an updated look, have the ability to plan their trip, and view/track real-time bus arrivals. To pay their fare, customers will scan the QR code on the app at the farebox scanner. 

Operators will no longer have to look at mobile tickets for validation. If customers pay a reduced fare, they will still have to show a LYNX issued ID. 

A new feature customers will like is that they will now be able to purchase a single-ride fare using a credit or debit card through the "Tap to Pay" feature directly on the farebox. Wearables such as smartwatches and smart devices will also allow customers to utilize the "Tap to Pay" feature as well.

STV Joint Venture Tapped for Amtrak Construction Contract

STV and Naik Consulting Group PC received a Notice to Proceed to provide Construction Management (CM) services for Amtrak’s East River Tunnel (ERT) Rehabilitation project. 

The tunnel is part of Amtrak’s Northeast Corridor, the busiest passenger rail line in the U.S. serving riders between Boston and Washington, D.C.

The joint venture will comprehensively modernize the ERT infrastructure, including two tubes (tunnels) damaged by Superstorm Sandy. The project involves reconstructing and upgrading all tunnel systems along the corridor, encompassing:

• Demolishing all existing tunnel systems down to the liner.

• Rehabilitate the tunnel structure.

• Replace cable benches.

• Installing new fire life safety systems.

• Replacing signals and traction power.

• Converting the tracks to a modern, direct fixation track system.

This upgrade is anticipated to reduce noise levels, decrease disruptive vibrations for passengers and improve durability, reliability and ride quality as the system is less susceptible to weather-related damage and reducing breakdowns in the tunnel. 

TARTA Taps Masabi for Account-Based Ticketing

Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) announced the launch of Account-Based Ticketing (ABT) with EZFare powered by Masabi’s Justride platform. 

The introduction of ABT ensures a seamless and flexible payment experience for all users, who will no longer need to select their fare or purchase a pass before boarding. Instead, they can simply tap their TARTA smartcards or scan the barcode in the EZFare app to ride. 

The cards are linked to online accounts, allowing users to easily manage and reload their accounts wherever they are, eliminating the need to wait in line or use cash, and delivering a contactless, convenient way to pay for transit. These accounts can also be topped up with cash at select retail locations. 

The new update also introduces fare capping, which allows fixed-route bus riders to get the value of an extended pass without paying the full upfront fee when paying with TARTA Cards or the EZfare app.