Still Waiting on the Universal Fare Card for U.S. Transit Systems

"American researchers, nonprofits, and high-tech startups are currently pushing for digitally integrated transit systems for a more streamlined passenger experience, with promises of cost savings for both riders and operators, and other quality of life improvements," according to an article by Julian Spector.

Spector goes on to detail the types of technology in development that could start to bridge the gaps necessary to provide universal fare card service in the United States. Systems like RideScout are making the first forays into providing multi-modal trip options, while others like GlobeSherpa (recently purchased by RideScout) are providing secure ticketing services.

Still, U.S. transit systems are behind the curve on universal fare cards—cities in Japan and the Netherlands, as well as Hong Kong, provide passes that allow users to switch modes from rail, bus, taxi, and more.