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

In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news in Pennsylvania, Winnipeg, Pittsburgh, and more.

Pennsylvania’s IndiGO, Modeshift Launch New Fare Collection System

Pa.’s Indiana County Transit Authority (IndiGO), in partnership with Modeshift, officially launched IndiGO Mobile Pay — a new digital fare collection system. 

IndiGO riders will now be able to experience a modernized transit system designed to enhance convenience, improve fare management, and streamline their overall travel experience.

IndiGO Mobile Pay offers passengers a fast and easy way to manage their fares through a mobile app or smart cards, reducing reliance on physical tickets or cash. Beyond simplifying payments, the system provides benefits like the ability to plan trips, track ride history, and manage accounts digitally. 

IndiGO becomes the ninth transit authority in Pa., to partner with Modeshift, joining other agencies, such as Crawford Area Transit Authority, Hazleton Public Transit, and Butler Transit Authority, in adopting digital fare solutions. 

STV to Lead Project in East Baltimore

STV signed a contract with East Baltimore Development Inc. (EBDI) to serve as the project and construction manager for the Phase 2B Public Roadway Infrastructure Project. 

The $12 million project marks the next chapter in transforming the East Baltimore community through crucial infrastructure upgrades.

STV will oversee the project from the selection of a general contractor through construction completion. Improvements will include repairing and upgrading public roadways, curbs, and sidewalks; updating streetscaping, lighting, and storm drainage systems; replacing water mains and service lines; and additional infrastructure repairs and enhancements. 

The streetscape enhancements are integral to supporting adjacent retail and residential development sites. Designed to attract both residential and commercial investment, the improvements will position the area for economic development and help create a vibrant community in East Baltimore.

Masabi Providing Account-Based Ticketing in Pittsburgh 

Pittsburgh Regional Transit (PRT) and Masabi announced the launch of Account-Based Ticketing (ABT) on PRT’s Ready2Ride app. 

With ABT, riders no longer need to purchase a ticket or select a fare in advance. Instead, they simply board, tap their mobile device on an onboard validator, and ride. The system, available exclusively through the Ready2Ride app, allows riders to use a secure QR code to validate their trips on PRT’s network of more than 700 buses, 80 rail cars, and the iconic Monongahela and Duquesne inclines.

The launch follows a successful collaboration between Masabi and PRT, which began in 2021 with the rollout of the Ready2Ride app and mobile ticketing integration into the Transit app.

In 2023, Masabi completed the rollout of validation devices across the network with certified devices going live on PRT’s light-rail fleet.

Winnipeg Taps PTV for Bus redesign Efforts

The City of Winnipeg is leveraging PTV Lines, a software by PTV Group, as the backbone for the transformative redesign of its bus network. The effort aims to meet the demands of the city’s rapid population growth and evolving transit needs.

Local transit operator Winnipeg Transit is using the innovative cloud-based tool to evaluate accessibility, adjust routes, and optimize timetables.

Currently, Winnipeg operates a network of 87 bus routes, which serves over 170,000 passengers daily. However, the existing transit infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the city’s geographic and demographic expansion. 

To ensure a seamless and efficient implementation, Winnipeg Transit relies on PTV Lines during the planning stages of the new bus network. This advanced cloud-based tool facilitates tasks such as fleet estimation, timetable planning, and evaluation of operational key performance indicators.