Article Highlights
Atlanta transit agency MARTA plans to launch open-loop payments in time for the city to host World Cup matches next year. Some observers are not so sure the agency will hit the deadline. Meanwhile, MARTA increased its fare-system vendor’s contract by nearly 25%.
• Document: Presentation and resolution to increase fare-system contract to $305.7 million, June 2025
• MARTA (Atlanta)
• INIT
• Cubic
• LA Metro
The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, or MARTA, said it plans to launch open-loop payments in time for the FIFA World Cup matches the city will host next year–though some have their doubts the agency will hit that target.
The now $300 million-plus project will introduce open-loop payments and a revamped version of the agency’s closed-loop Breeze card as part of an account-based ticketing system for Atlanta’s four-line subway, 500-plus fixed-route buses and light-rail streetcar. The work includes replacing 400 fare gates and other equipment.