Monroe Transit partners with Modeshift to offer contactless fare collection system

July 13, 2021
The new system aims to improve the safety and efficiency of its public transit and move the city into the future of urban mobility.

Monroe Transit has launched MTSPay, its new contactless fare collection system.  

The new system aims to improve the safety and efficiency of its public transit and move the city into the future of urban mobility. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Monroe Transit’s ridership decreased by 60 percent. To improve public safety, provide an enhanced customer experience and encourage riders to come back onboard, the agency partnered with Modeshift to offer contactless payment options and trip planning tools for riders. 

Cities that have deployed Modeshift's contactless fare collection system have seen adoption rates increase by upwards of 110 percent, showing that consumer preferences have shifted to prefer touchless payments along with a user-friendly mobile experience, according to the company. 

“The pandemic has increased the need for digital transformation on public transit, and commuters are ready for this change to make their journeys easier and safer during the pandemic,” said Miroslav Katsarov, CEO of Modeshift. “We’re pleased to partner with Monroe Transit to offer a contactless transit experience that anyone can use, with several options to pay for tickets and plan your journey.” 

Using Modeshift’s technology, Monroe Transit users can purchase tickets through the new MTSPay app and website, which generates a unique QR code for each fare. Users can redeem this fare by scanning the QR code at electronic validators installed on 19 buses across the city. 

“We’re excited to provide a safer experience for riders and staff while improving the customer experience for booking and managing trips,” said Marc Keenan, general manager at Monroe Transit System. “Using Modeshift’s technology, users will experience an intelligent transport system that makes booking and planning trips far easier.” 

Features of MTSPay include: 

  • The MTSPay mobile application, where users can plan their trip, find real-time information on their route and purchase tickets in advance. 
  • The MTSPay web portal for trip planning, fare purchases and reloading user accounts. 
  • Two point of sale locations equipped to sell NFC smart cards and paper tickets.