Detroit transit agencies have rolled out the new mobile app, Dart, enabling riders to pay for transit passes on a unified payment system that can be used on Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT), Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) fixed route buses and the QLINE streetcar.
“Today is a big step towards making it easier to ride transit in the Detroit region,” said Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan. “The Dart mobile app is another demonstration of DDOT, SMART and QLINE leadership and staff working together to improve the transit experience for our residents.”
The app, created by Passport, allows customers to buy Dart passes directly on their smartphones. Users download the app, create an account with payment information and then buy passes directly on their phones. Upon purchase, users have immediate access to an electronic pass. With the Dart app, users can select a 4-hour, 24-hour, 7-day or 31-day pass at standard or reduced fare rates. Currently, the app features Dart passes, but will support individual agency passes in the future.
“We are happy that after years of talking about ways to collaborate with DDOT and make it easier for riders to pay on either system, that we are finally doing it,” said SMART General Manager John Hertel. “Our number one goal is to benefit the riding public and the Dart app does just that. It’s been great working with the Duggan Administration and DDOT on these cooperative ventures which have been hoped for by many for so long.”
Passport works with the city of Detroit on several transportation initiatives, including the Park Detroit mobile app for parking. Detroit is also a part of the company’s micro-mobility pilot program to test electric scooter pricing models.
“We are thrilled to continue our work with the city of Detroit to power the new Dart regional transit app,” said Tom Weise, sales executive at Passport. “With the app, we can make it easier for customers to pay for transit passes and encourage transit ridership throughout the Detroit area.”
Users can download the Dart app from the App Store or Google Play store and can visit thedartapp.com for more information.