SLow Down the Hill Now is a Sign in front of the MHNO Office on Congress Street on the Hill.

Earlier this week local bus lines launched a new fare payment option for its riders:  Tap-to-Ride, for the convenience of its customers in southern Maine.. Announcing this change in payment options are the Greater Portland Metro and Biddeford Saco Old Orchard Beach Transit (BSOOB Transit).

Tap-to-Ride allows users to pay the fare by tapping a credit card, debit card, or wallet-enabled phone or watch – similiar to many retail establishments.  Users can pay for multiple passengers with the same card.

Users paying with Tap-to-Ride will be charged the full fare for the route they are boarding.  Users who ride often, or who qualify for reduced fare, are encouraged to continue using the Dirigo Pass system, which offers daily and monthly caps on transit fares, reduced fares for qualified individuals and free transfers within 90 minutes.

“Tap-to-Ride is our most significant innovation in fare paymets since we launched electronic payments six years ago,” said Chad Heid, Metro’s Chief Transportation Officer.  “We want riding transit in Greater Portland to be as effortless as buying a cup of coffee.  You don’t need a transit pass or exact change.  You just hop on board, tap your everday card or smart device and go.”

“Public transit is vital for our community and getting on board should not be a source of stress,” said John Savae, Execudtive Direcdtor of BSOOB DTransit.  “By accepting everday payment methods, we are breaking down barriers for ridership, making our transit systems more equitabale, straightforward and ready to serve everyone.”