
The infamous ETS Platinum has a smart card reader onboard.
Tomorrow council’s Transportation and Public Works (TPW) Committee will discuss a report on the prospects for implementing a ’smart card’ system for paying fares on ETS. These are typically ‘contactless’ or ‘proximity’ systems where you simply wave the card past the reader.
The report responds to an inquiry I initiated a couple of months ago in anticipation of my rotation on to TPW for the next year.
I’ve been keen on this since having a great experience in London with the ‘Oyster Card‘ system on my honeymoon three years ago, and since working on the U-Pass negotiations and implementation in my former role working for students at the U of A.
These systems have much broader application as well, such as the ability to integrate with other civic and partner cards, for example Edmonton Public Library card, City rec facility access, parking access. In Asia many smart card systems also function as debit cards.
ETS has been conducting a pilot project with the U of A, who are also evaluation smart card systems for their One-Card, which illustrates some of the potential for partnerships with other institutions.
From the report:
A key benefit of smart cards is the improved operational efficiency due to simplified fare product and financial distribution channels. Agencies report better revenues due to re-designed fare strategies, value-added service features and convenience. Other benefits include:
- Better able to forecast service and market adjustments with real time travel and usage data
- Improve use of all transit modes due to easier transfers
- Deliver immediate benefits and changes to fares, etc. to users
- Provide access to other municipal services
- Accept other smart cards from banks, etc.
There are positive operating budget impacts outlined in the report as well:
- reduce financial losses due to fare evasion
- sell advertisement on the card (logos, etc.)
- reduce costs associated with printing fare media and distribution
- enable immediate changes to create a more efficient transit service based on real time commuter travel history
- reduce some of the support needed for other fare systems (ie cash, tickets, etc.).
I would add the following as well:
- Customer ease of use in terms of being able to recharge the card on-line or automatically.
- Ability to manage zone fares easily, which will be more important as intermunicipal transit develops in the Capital Region.
- Ability to deactivate if lost or stolen.
The report indicates a four year rollout with a $24 million price tag. The city’s auditor recommended in 2006 that the city persue this as the financial and operational benefits were strong. I’m hoping to give it a push forward tomorrow and get the formal business case prepared.
I’d like to see us get started on implementation soon. This isn’t leading edge stuff anymore. This is now an established practice.

