How can transit serve diverse passenger needs better? Jamie Geleynse, Director of Business Development North America at Scheidt & Bachmann, discussed inclusive fare payment solutions at the CUTA Spring Summit in May. Here are some key takeaways from his presentation:
🚉 An Open Payment Solution: Contactless payment methods can address 95% of passengers’ fare preferences, offering convenient options for most passengers. Yet, acknowledging the 5% who rely on cash underscores the need for flexible payment methods to ensure inclusivity for all.
🛤️ Avoiding One-Size-Fits-All Solutions: Jamie stressed the importance of tailored approaches, recognizing the diverse needs of transit users. Cookie-cutter solutions often fall short; personalized strategies are vital for fostering truly inclusive transit systems.
🎫 Fare Structure Alignment: Aligning fare structures with ridership behavior and type is crucial for promoting fare payment inclusivity. Understanding passengers' unique needs enables transit agencies to design fair, affordable structures that encourage increased ridership.
🔓 Removing Barriers to Fare Purchasing: Addressing ticketing accessibility, payment options, and purchase locations is important to help ensure all passengers can easily access transit services.
Let’s create transit systems that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility for everyone. We’ll take you there. 🚇💼
