The Port Authority will partner with NJ TRANSIT to undertake an eight-month pilot test that will allow customers to use bank cards, key fobs, cell phones and other devices to pay for transit.  The test will determine if customers could ultimately use these devices as additional ways to pay fares on all of the region’s transit systems, including New York City’s subways and buses. 

At its February 21 meeting the Port Authority Board of Commissioners authorized an agreement with MasterCard Worldwide and NJ TRANSIT to develop and test a “tap” payment card and other devices at all 13 PATH stations and on two connecting NJ Transit bus routes.  The pilot is to be compatible with the MTA’s current test of contactless bank cards in the New York City subway system. 

PayPass Enabled Cellular Phone in Use at a Merchant

The Port Authority toll and fare increase will take effect on Sunday, March 2.  Tunnel and bridge customers who use qualifying low-emission vehicles will be eligible to register that vehicle for the Port Authority Green Pass Discount Plan which will offer a $4 E-ZPass off-peak toll rate - no increase above the current off-peak rate.  For further details, click on the icon to the right.

The Port Authority is making an unprecedented $3.3 billion investment in PATH, including upgrading stations and communications, and replacing the entire existing fleet of PATH cars. Visit the Port Authority’s Web site for a video of a mock-up of a new full-size PATH car.

Web casts of Port Authority committee and board meetings are available on the Port Authority’s Web site.

Podcasts of archived Growing the Region e-newsletters are available on the Port Authority’s Web site.