Caltrain passengers are one step closer to a mobile ticketing option, following an approval on January 5 by the agency’s Board of Directors to develop the new fare technology.
During its monthly meeting, the Caltrain Board of Directors approved an estimated $643,733 for a two year contract with the moovel Group to develop, implement, maintain and host an app that will allow customers to purchase fares on their mobile phones.
By this summer, passengers are anticipated to have the technology available for mobile ticketing to purchase One-way, Day Pass and Zone Upgrade fares. Future options may include daily parking permits and components for trip planning and real-time information on service updates, among other functions.
The app will support iOS and Android operating systems and will accept major credit and debit cards, including commuter benefit cards, as forms of payment.
The contract also included the option to extend services for an additional three years.
Caltrain is in the midst of modernizing its system by electrifying its railway between San Francisco and San Jose, a project that is slated for completion by 2021. The agency is excited about creating an advanced ticketing system to match its innovative rail network.
“Caltrain serves the most innovative region in the nation, so we know the system’s passengers are enthusiastic about the opportunity for technology to make riding Caltrain more convenient,” said José Cisneros, chair of Caltrain’s Board of Directors. “Mobile ticketing is just one way Caltrain is stepping forward to improve the customer experience.”
