INIT Innovations in Transportation Inc., in partnership with Seattle’s Sound Transit, successfully launched open payments on the ORCA regional fare system.

The landmark event empowers riders across six agencies in the Puget Sound region to tap-and-ride transit using a contactless credit or debit card or a mobile wallet.

Contactless in Seattle

Contactless payment options now include Visa, Mastercard, Discover Network, and American Express cards, as well as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay in mobile wallets. This feature will significantly impact the region’s ability to manage rising demand as Seattle prepares to host an estimated 750,000 fans during the upcoming global games.

“Open payments reduce barriers and make transit the easy choice for everyday riders and visitors alike,” said Chris McKnight, ORCA director. “By partnering with INIT, people can now ride with the cards and devices they already carry.”

Public transit ridership in the Seattle region continues to expand, and ORCA has played a key role in that momentum.

Since its implementation, the system has recorded major milestones, including 82 million ORCA card taps at its first anniversary.

Today, 79% of fares are paid using ORCA, underscoring the system’s widespread adoption and ease of use.

Boosting Multimodality

ORCA supports travel across buses, ferries, and light rail for six regional partner agencies: Sound Transit, King County Metro, Community Transit, Everett Transit, Kitsap Transit, and Pierce Transit.

As service expands with more buses, light rail extensions, and improved ferry connections, INIT’s fare technology ensures the Puget Sound transit network is ready to meet rising demand while putting riders first — now and in the years ahead.

ORCA is one of multiple INIT fare systems being launched in World Cup host cities, including Houston and Atlanta.