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CTA requests proposals for smart card travel system
1 Oct 2010

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is preparing to move ahead with its plans for an open fare payment system of public transportation that makes use of contactless smart cards.

It has submitted a request for proposals on the design, implementation and operation of the system, which it believes should also cater to debit card and prepaid card payments.

Richard L Rodriguez, president of the CTA, said that implementing a smart card travel system would allow the organisation to cut expenses through the use of "emerging technologies".

He said: "The CTA will be able to update our fare equipment without an upfront capital cost. Our riders would have a more convenient, streamlined fare payment and reload option and our farecard partner would be able to expand their presence in the Chicago market."

Suppliers interested in the scheme will be able to bid in three categories, namely Supplies, Construction and Services.

It is expected that the new system will entail a contactless smart card carrying a computer chip that enables CTA passengers to pay for fares, as well as other purchases, using e money.