Photos by Steve Guttbinder
A reader just sent us these photos, saying "Look what I found on my M14!" Indeed, this is worthy of at least one exclamation point (and some SubChatters were equally enthused after spotting one earlier this week). If you've never found yourself short of change or MetroCard funds after getting on a bus, here is typically what happens. The driver gives you some time to rummage through your purse for change (because no bills are accepted), then suggests you ask everyone on board if they have change, and then you basically get booted off at the next stop after an unsuccessful attempt at panhandling. But things are about to change, straphangers... as long as you're holding plastic.
The PayPass program, allowing riders to pay with a card, was first introduced to 30 subway stations back in 2006 and has expanded since. We've contacted the MTA's Aaron Donovan to find out more about these latest sightings on buses, and will update when he gets back to us.
UPDATE: Donovan tells us, "As we noted in our recent report, Making Every Dollar Count (PDF), this year we are piloting a new fare collection technology that will eliminate the need to swipe a farecard, will cost the MTA less to operate and will ultimately provide additional benefits to subway, bus and commuter rail customers, including faster bus boarding, better regional interconnectivity, and the ability to select between pay-per-ride and unlimited-ride fare options over the phone or via the web.
The unit your reader photographed, and similar ones, once activated, will be part of that pilot. The pilot is expected to launch this summer. The units are currently not active."
