According to Chicago media reports, Metra will soon roll out a new mobile ticket-purchasing platform for commuters that will be a game-changing resource for train passengers.
The system in question, which is set for release this summer, will enable riders to purchase tickets directly from their mobile devices.
To promote the upcoming app, Metra is increasing its penalty for onboard purchases to discourage riders from paying with cash after the app is released, according to a Jan. 23 Metra press release. The app is expected to help in the development of a regional app that is being created in conjunction with the Chicago Transit Authority and Pace bus service.
“Riders will have the option to pay the on-train fares using their smartphones joined with a credit or debit card or a Ventra account,” the Columbia Chronicle reports. “According to the press release, the app will feature other account management functions, such as the ability to add transit value, load passes onto Ventra cards, check balances and receive real-time account alerts.”
Metra is actively testing the app and all is supposedly smooth-sailing for now.