Madison Reporter

Metro Transit has introduced a new payment option for bus riders, allowing the use of contactless Mastercard or Visa credit cards and mobile wallets such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay to pay adult rate fares. This service is available starting today.

The use of contactless credit cards will provide the same multiple-ride discounts as the adult Metro Fast Fare single ride at $2.00. Riders can also benefit from a 2-hour transfer and fare capping at $5.00 daily, $16.25 weekly, or $65 monthly rates. To receive these transfers and discounts, it is necessary for riders to use the same credit card each time they board.

Mick Rusch, Chief Development Officer at Metro Transit, stated: “This new option allows riders to ride Metro on the go without the need to prepay or create an online account ahead of time. It’s a quick and easy option for both frequent riders and traveling visitors who just want to hop on and ride.”

Metro Transit advises against holding up a wallet or purse containing both a Fast Fare card and a credit card simultaneously near the reader, as this may result in an unintended charge or error message. Additionally, switching between cards or virtual payment types will not allow tracking or application of multiple-ride discounts.

Half-price fares via credit card payments are still under development but are expected later this summer. Meanwhile, eligible youth, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with low incomes can continue receiving half-price fares using their current Fast Fare cards.

For further information or inquiries regarding credit card payments, customers are encouraged to contact Metro’s Customer Service by calling (608) 266-4466 or emailing mymetrobus@cityofmadison.com.