Allegheny County transit agency seeks input on fare system modifications

The Port Authority of Allegheny County is launching a campaign aimed at developing recommendations for improving its fare system.

Dubbed, "Where to Next," the campaign will solicit public feedback through an online survey, a Web-based community discussion site and finally a public hearing later this year.

Community members also will be able to take the survey at local events throughout the summer.

One proposed fare modification involves making the agency's rail system "cashless," meaning riders would need to pay their fares using a "ConnectCard." This would "significantly improve boarding and commuting times," according to the authority's website.

After consideration by the agency's board, any improvements would be implemented in phases, authority officials said in a statement.

"We've talked about improving fare products and our fare policy for years but now we're doing it," said Port Authority Chief Executive Officer Ellen McLean. "We want to engage our riders and residents through the summer to gather as much input on this as possible."