Casper's Public Transit System Embraces Digital Age with New Fare System

Casper Area Transit will implement a new electronic fare system in the coming month and a half for its door-to-door and fixed-route services, transitioning from the current ASSIST and LINK systems to E-Pass and Scan Pass, respectively. The new system aims to enhance customer convenience, eliminate expenses, enable accurate data collection, and address issues such as lost fares and the need for physical tickets.

Casper Area Transit Embraces Digital Revolution with New Electronic Fare System

Casper, Wyoming - Casper Area Transit (CAT) is poised to revolutionize its fare collection system, introducing a state-of-the-art electronic fare system that will enhance convenience, efficiency, and data accuracy for its valued customers. This transformative initiative, approved by the Casper City Council last fall, is set to roll out over the next month and a half, heralding a new era of seamless transit experiences.

The current ASSIST door-to-door service ticket and LINK fixed-route service token will be replaced by the cutting-edge E-Pass and Scan Pass, respectively. This technological upgrade promises a wealth of benefits for CAT patrons.

Eliminating Lost Fare Woes:

One of the most significant advantages of the electronic fare system is its ability to safeguard against lost fares. In the past, if a rider lost their fare or it was stolen, there was no recourse to recover the lost value. However, with the E-Pass and Scan Pass, customers can rest assured that their fares are secure. In the event of a lost Scan Pass, customers can simply notify the Transit office, and the remaining fares will be transferred to a new pass, ensuring peace of mind and uninterrupted transit access.

Greater Flexibility and Convenience:

The new fare system introduces greater flexibility for monthly pass holders. Currently, Transit offers month passes that are only valid for the current month. With the Scan Pass, riders will enjoy the convenience of 30-day passes that are effective from the purchase date. Moreover, riders can purchase multiple 30-day passes, eliminating the need for frequent visits to the Transit office.

For ASSIST riders, the E-Pass eliminates the need to carry a physical pass, reducing the risk of loss or theft. It also streamlines the process of using the service, as caregivers no longer need to pass tickets to the rider and then to the driver.

Enhanced Data Collection for Improved Planning:

The electronic fare system will also enable more accurate data collection, a requirement of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for federal funding purposes. This data will provide valuable insights into passenger usage patterns, allowing CAT to optimize its services and meet the evolving needs of the community.

Smooth Transition Plan:

To ensure a seamless transition, CAT will gradually phase out the use of paper tickets and tokens. For ASSIST, paper tickets will no longer be issued after Friday, May 31, and will no longer be accepted after that date. For LINK, the transition to the Scan Pass will commence on Monday, July 1, with current LINK tokens being accepted through Wednesday, July 31.

Customers are encouraged to transfer any outstanding ASSIST tickets or LINK tokens to their E-Pass or Scan Pass by turning them in, along with proof of purchase, to the Casper Area Transit office. CAT will grant credit for these outstanding fares only until June 30 for ASSIST tickets and until August 31 for LINK tokens.

Embracing Technological Advancements:

This electronic fare system is a testament to CAT's commitment to embracing technological advancements that enhance the customer experience. It aligns with the Casper Area Metropolitan Planning Organization's (CAMPO) mission to identify and implement projects and programs that promote efficient and accessible transportation solutions for the Casper metropolitan area.

Contact Information:

For further inquiries, customers can reach out to the Casper Area Transit office at 1715 E. 4th St., call (307) 235-8261 or (307) 235-8214, or visit www.casperareatransit.org.