The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) and Bytemark on Sept. 4 announced plans to partner to offer mobile and web based ticketing for the state’s BusPlus program.
The BusPlus program is a partnership between MassDOT and private bus operators offering new regional transportation services to increase intercity and commuter transportation options available across the Commonwealth and New England. Seven private operators including Peter Pan Bus Lines, Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Co., DATTCO, Coach Company, Bloom’s Bus Lines, Boston Express, and Yankee Line will participate in the mobile pilot, which is scheduled to be completed in early spring 2015.
The free BusPlus app will utilize Bytemark’s mobile ticketing solution, which enables riders to purchase and store transit passes on their mobile devices. To use passes, riders show their smartphone screen to bus operators or scan the on-screen barcode upon boarding. The app will be available initially for Apple iOS and Android with a Windows Phone version coming at a later date. The application will offer schedules, a trip planner and the latest service advisories. This will be the first mobile ticketing solution for the private bus industry in the country, where tickets can be purchased from multiple operators.
Bytemark CEO Micah Bergdale said, “We could not be more thrilled to be working with MassDOT on the BusPlus mobile and online ticketing project. We believe that everyone benefits when transit services work together – daily riders, operators and the communities they serve. The Bytemark Platform was built from the beginning to enable and foster these relationships. We are excited that MassDOT shares our vision and we look forward to the day that BusPlus is the standard for bus travel in the region.”
In addition to the mobile app, a BusPlus website will be rolled out that allows for account management, ticket purchasing, and print-at-home options.
The website is being developed by Bytemark in partnership with Artifex Technology Consulting.
“BusPlus has made a positive difference for customers across the region with new buses and better options in expanded regional transportation services,” said MassDOT Secretary & CEO Richard A. Davey, “and a mobile and online ticketing option adds an important convenience for the daily commute.”
“Smartphone and online ticket options are becoming a customer expectation in public transportation, and I am pleased to see the BusPlus program partner with Bytemark to deliver this enhancement for riders across the Commonwealth and New England region,” said MassDOT Rail & Transit Division Administrator and MBTA General Manager Beverly Scott.
"Plymouth and Brockton is pleased to participate with the MassDOT in the development of the BusPlus program”, stated Chris Anzuoni, vice president of the Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Co. one of the companies taking part in the ticketing pilot. “Updating our ticketing procedure has been a long-term request by our customers. The online and mobile device capability will certainly enhance their traveling experience.”
