Metra rolls out electronic ticketing pilot in downtown chicago

Metra, Chicago's commuter rail service, launched a new pilot program for electronic ticketing at select downtown stations on Monday. Starting April 6, riders boarding off-peak trains at participating stations will need to present their digital or paper tickets before boarding. The goal is to test the functionality, durability, and speed of handheld scanning devices, as well as gather data on fare purchase habits.

Station crews to scan tickets at platform entrances

Riders without valid tickets at the platform entrance will be asked to purchase one before boarding. The off-peak only rollout aims to avoid initial congestion, with plans to expand to peak hour trains if the pilot proves successful.

This marks a significant step towards modernizing Metra's ticketing system, potentially streamlining the boarding process for commuters in the future.