OCTA Extends Fare System with INIT Compact Ticket Vending Machines
OCTA customers will be able to validate their fare media on the OC Streetcar and OCTA Bus system.

INIT VENDstation TVMs are designed to improve the customer experience by facilitating the purchase of encrypted barcoded paper tickets using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets.
Photo: OCTA
The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) has selected INIT to supply, implement, and support ticket vending machines (TVMs) at streetcar platforms across 10 stations in Orange County, California.
INIT VENDstation TVMs are designed to improve the customer experience by facilitating the purchase of encrypted barcoded paper tickets using cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets. OCTA customers will be able to validate their fare media on the OC Streetcar and OCTA Bus system.
Given the agency’s platform space, the INIT VENDstation’s compact footprint allows for the implementation of two TVMs at each station. Other factors included INIT’s system integration flexibility, secure IT architecture, and INIT’s relevant experience and positive references from its other TVM customers.
This contract represents a successful partnership between OCTA and INIT. The agency procured INIT’s fare validators in 2016, which were installed across its more than five hundred fixed-route buses. The back-office system provided the open architecture design to support OCTA’s ongoing system extensions.
The addition of INIT’s VENDstations are expected to further enhance the customer experience by providing more convenient and seamless ticketing options for riders, simplifying transit use, and allowing for potential future regional fare integration.
More Bus

LA Metro September Ridership Climbs 3.9%, Led by Rail Growth
The agency recorded more than 27.2 million boardings, with rail ridership increasing 12.4% year over year and the D Line posting the largest gains.
Read More →
Frontrunner Bus Group Introduces XF Low-Floor Bus with Enhanced Accessibility
The new mid-sized bus features a full flat-floor design, eight-inch curbside step-in height, and zero-entry rear ramp to improve passenger access and operational flexibility.
Read More →
Scenes from APTA TRANSform & EXPO 2026
Transit leaders, manufacturers, and industry professionals gathered in Chicago to explore new technologies, share ideas, and discuss the future of public transportation.
Read More →
More Than a Summer Job: Building the Next Generation of Transit Talent
The Delaware River Port Authority and PATCO have transformed their internship program into a hands-on professional development experience that introduces students to the breadth of transportation careers — and creates a pipeline for future employees.
Read More →
LA Metro Board Awards 220 Battery-Electric Bus Contract to ENC
The contract, which is the largest base award of battery-electric buses by a U.S. transit agency, will be built in Southern California, sustaining good jobs as LA prepares to welcome the world in 2028
Read More →
Public Transit Conference Returning to GFX in 2027, Call for Papers Now Open
The Call for Papers is now open, allowing transit agency professionals and industry experts to help shape the PTC educational program by submitting session ideas for consideration.
Read More →
Indian River Transit’s Community-Focused Approach Earns National Recognition
Named APTA’s 2026 Outstanding Public Transportation System in its size category, Florida’s Indian River County transit system continues to grow ridership through fare-free service and a focus on evolving community needs.
Read More →
ENC Lands MATA Contract and More in Biz Briefs
In this edition of Biz Briefs, we spotlight the latest developments shaping the future of mobility.
Read More →
From Surviving to Thriving: Building Stronger Transportation Organizations
Bus Business Consultants founder Brian Dickson shares lessons on leadership, organizational health, and creating options for long-term success in a changing transportation industry.
Read More →
Everett Transit, Community Transit Outline Consolidation Agreement
The proposed agreement calls for a 50% increase in bus service in Everett, a new microtransit zone, continued paratransit service, and the transfer of Everett Transit operations to Community Transit.
Read More →