Bytemark entered a new partnership with payments technology company InComm to enable passengers to add value to their accounts for transit and parking by using cash at thousands of brick-and-mortar retail locations across the U.S.

The partnership will make transit more accessible to a larger group of passengers. Cash-preferred users can participate by paying for fares at popular retailers where they already shop. The move also allows agencies to strengthen their Title VI inclusivity programs.

The transit cash load option, powered by VanillaDirect™, will provide passengers access to a network of participating retailers with nearly 60,000 locations nationwide. The network, encompassing convenience and value stores as well as pharmacies, includes some of the nation's largest retailers, many of which will offer transit payment options to customers for the first time.

The service will be available as part of Bytemark Transact and can be used by Bytemark Passage and Bytemark Connect customers and as a standalone payments feature.

Customers can buy transit passes or load value to their in-app wallets. The stored value wallets can then be used as a payment method for future in-app purchases. Agencies reduce their transaction costs, and riders who want to use cash enjoy a convenient way to do it. Bytemark expects agencies to be able to take advantage of the feature within the next few months.