PATH Expands Contactless Payments Efforts Across Major Transit Hubs

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is expanding its Total Access PATH Payment (TAPP) system to major transit hubs. The first phase of the rollout, which was completed this week, saw the installation of 12 new turnstiles at the World Trade Center. TAPP is now accessible through select turnstiles at terminal stations where PATH lines begin and end. Other  stations where TAPP is featured include the 33rd Street terminals in New York, Newark-Penn Station, Journal Square, and Hoboken in New Jersey—all of which constitute the system’s busiest, serving 67% of total ridership in 2023, per Port Authority. The TAPP rollout will extend to remaining stations in New Jersey and New York in the coming months. Since its launch in December, PATH has recorded over one million TAPP transactions, signifying rapid and seamless adoption by riders. On average, nearly 20,000 TAPP transactions occur on weekdays as passengers enter the PATH system. “These TAPP numbers show we’ve tapped into something our riders truly appreciate, giving them more flexibility and more freedom in how they pay their fare,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole said in a prepared statement. “The first phase of the TAPP rollout has been a resounding success, and we’re excited to bring this technology to the rest of the system in the near future.”

More Contactless Trips

As Elisa Tavilla, Director of Debit at Javelin Strategy & Research pointed out last year, more transit operators around the globe are introducing contactless fare payment systems, offering riders the convenience of tapping their credit/debit card or mobile phone for payment. This trend shows no signs of slowing down, as contactless and digital payments continue to enhance efficiency and cost savings for both transit operators and customers. Transit agencies benefit from reduced expenses related to maintaining ticket vending machines, printing fare media, and handling cash.