BOSTON (WHDH) - Thursday marked the start of a new era for the MBTA as riders can now tap their phone or their credit card to pay for rides without having to buy a Charlie Card.
The new contactless payment option is also available on subways, buses, the Green Line, and the T’s Mattapan trolleys.
A similar feature is already used in other major transit systems, including New York City’s subway.
The MBTA said the new payment system is a way for commuters in a rush to save time by not having to stop to buy a Charlie Card.
Instead, riders can simply tap their phone or card on newly-installed readers at fare gates or train doors.
While the new system is in place, riders will still have the option to buy and use Charlie Cards.
Riders do not yet have an option for contactless payment on MBTA ferries or the Commuter Rail.
“We’re finally in the 21st century,” said T rider Grace Montgomery on Thursday after using contactless payment in the subway. “It’s great.”
Gov. Maura Healey and MBTA General Manager Philip Eng tested out the new system during the morning commute and celebrated what they said was a step forward for the T.
“It’s awesome, ” Healey said. “And really, huge thanks to Phil [and] the team at the T for getting this done, because we’re working on making the T more accessible, more modern.”
“A lot of folks worked really hard to turn this around and deliver this for the riders. It’s an exciting time,” Eng said.
Speaking with 7NEWS, Montgomery praised the T for the new payment method.
“I’m glad it’s here,” she said.
She shared further praise for Eng.
“I think the guy in charge of the T is doing a great job fixing everything right now,” she continued. “The Red Line is back in action so, I’m excited about it.”
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