The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) announced it has contracted Innovations in Transportation, Inc. (INIT), to implement its Automated Fare Collection system, AFC 2.0. 

AFC 2.0 aims to integrate contactless payment options across various transit modes - incorporating bus, and heavy and light rail. This integration also extends to regional transit providers including CobbLinc, Ride Gwinnett, and Xpress.

“First and foremost, this new, state-of-the-art fare collection system will improve service and provide customers with a better overall experience,” said MARTA GM/CEO Collie Greenwood. “And from our side, AFC 2.0 will allow us to further optimize our operations and increase farebox recovery. It’s a major win for both MARTA and our riders.” 

MARTA, INIT Transform Commuting Experience 

MARTA's collaboration with INIT will impact riders’ commutes in Atlanta through the introduction of a unified, contactless "tap and go" service. 

Passengers can tap to ride at fare gates in MARTA rail stations and at more than 1,800 fare validators at rail stations, bus rapid transit and light rail station platforms, and onboard non-Rapid vehicles.

Included in the contract are more than 275 ADA-compliant ticket vending machines (TVMs) to service riders with ticket purchases. INIT TVMs not only accept credit/debit cards, smart cards, smartphones, and wearables but also cash transactions dispensing change in both bills and coins.

INIT’s back-office software, MOBILEvario, will empower MARTA to offer pricing equity that caters to riders' needs — from employer initiatives, and discounts for seniors and students, to special event pricing.

Fare capping is also possible, allowing riders to travel freely after hitting their daily or monthly pass threshold.

Cash-reliant travelers will be able to pay fares using the new onboard fare boxes from Genfare which will be integrated by INIT into the AFC 2.0 system. A retail network of about 240 locations will eliminate the need for riders to travel to a rail station for tickets.