Conduent has begun incorporating advances in payment technologies into NJ Transit's fare payment system that will enable customers to "tap and ride" using their mobile devices and other cashless payment methods, such as contactless bank cards.
As part of the project, more than 500 ticket vending machines, 200 platform validators and 65 fare gates will be refreshed to accept payments via mobile phones and contactless bank cards. Conduent will also add 2,500 validators on buses so riders can easily tap on to validate or pay their fare.
Conduent's contract with NJ Transit began earlier this year and will include four phases over a five-year period. The company's travel account system, once upgraded, will securely process all user transactions, deducting fares from riders' account balances, recognizing a monthly plan or directly debiting their payment card, or their PayPal, Apple Pay or Google Pay account. Customers will also be able to access their transit accounts to view transaction details and manage their travel expenses.
"Advances in telecommunications combined with the rollout of contactless bank cards and mobile wallets allow agencies to offer alternative payment options to their customers," said Mick Slattery, CEO, Conduent Transportation. "The enhancements to NJ Transit's fare payment system will enable the agency to focus on its core mission of transporting people, while we make sure the technology continues to deliver an enhanced rider experience."
