BART EZ Rider - Pilot Program

Written by Hambaba

Friday, 26 January 2007

EZ Rider, a blessing for the hard core users of BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) system; No more waiting in lines for a new ticket, missing the BART by a mere few seconds due to administrative procedures (ie adding more value on your ticket, getting stuck at the entrance, etc). BART is currently testing a new card system that will allow riders to have a electronic "smart card" which they can quickly swipe over any BART entrances to gain access. The card will be connected to user's credit or debit card allowing for automatic reductions whenever the card is low in value.

Here is quick rundown of the key benefits of EZ Rider

PROS
- Quick entrance (no more pleasing the machine with a ticket)
- No paper tickets, everything on one card
- No worries about having enough cash for a ride. Card will automatically replenish itself after a certain minimum value is reached (Autoload feature)
- Discounts when you add value to the card (ie Value of $48 will cost $45)

The card is still limited in some features since it is still in pilot (test) phase but the following is quick list of downfalls;

CONS
- Card must be stored separately because "smart chips" from other cards can damage or interfere with EZ Rider card
- Can not pay BART parking with card
- Currently only one type of fare charged which is for Adults (Sorry youth and elders)
- Can not use for the AirBart
- Current method of payment is by Credit or Debit cards.

So far the program could be a winner for bay area commuters. Now whatever happened to the idea of expanding the BART system to San Jose?

For more information.

EZ Rider Ticket Type

EZ Rider FAQs

EZ Rider Registration

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