Tap and go: PATH trains begin new contactless payment system
Customers will be able to use their mobile wallet and credit card that's enabled, or any type of mobile device – walk up, tap and go.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey released a new tap and go PATH fare payment system Tuesday morning for commuters.
Officials say the pilot program for the TAPP system is meant to improve overall customer experience, making it quicker and easier for those hoping to catch a train.
TAPP launched at 10 a.m., and several commuters expressed their excitement to use the new turnstiles at Journal Square station.
Alyssa Phillips, who takes the PATH, says she loves it because she doesn’t have to wait in line.
“It’s way easier so I don’t have to miss the train,” she said.
Customers will be able to use their mobile wallet and credit card that's enabled, or any type of mobile device – walk up, tap and go. Commuters will no longer have to purchase a MetroCard or smart link card.
Officials say contactless payment has been years in the making and puts the rider first by saving them time. Eventually, the system will do away with cards that have to be replenished. They say the new system will also help commuters avoid having to turn back around if their balance is low.
Officials are looking ahead to the future as the new equipment will be phased into other stations over the next 18 months.
Clarelle DeGraffe, PATH director and general manager, says the new system will start in the terminal stations over the next quarter and then the number of turnstiles will slowly increase.
“At the point in time when we feel the adoption rate is strong enough, then we will transition for all the turnstiles to have the tap and go system,” DeGraffe said.
At some point, officials say they will move away from SmartLink and MetroCards. But for now, those turnstiles will still be readily available for commuters who may not be ready to transition over just yet.
The TAPP system can also be found at 33rd Street in Manhattan.
