WINNIPEG — A long awaited smart card system for Winnipeg Transit is officially available for everyone to use Monday.
The city’s new Peggo cards have embedded microchips that transit users tap on a farebox. There are two types of fares: an e-pass, which are valid for unlimited trips, and e-cash, which replaces paper tickets.
The smart cards first launched July 4, but were only available for seniors to use.
READ MORE: Winnipeg Transit’s reloadable Peggo cards ready for seniors to purchase
The $17 million system was originally supposed to be in place in June 2013, but technology issues kept pushing the date back.
Cards can be purchased at all 7-Eleven stores and all Shoppers Drug Mart stores across Winnipeg. They can also be purchased at Winnipeg Transit or by calling 311.
During the launch period, riders can continue using paper passes and tickets and are encouraged to use these items, as they will no longer be sold in the new year. Cash fares will still be accepted.
How to use Peggo
- Tap it against the card reader on the farebox and wait for it to beep. There are two types of fares that can be loaded onto Peggo cards: e-passes and e-cash.
- E-passes will replace paper passes and are valid for an unlimited number of trips during a set number of consecutive days. Transit will offer passes that range from 24 hours, all the way up to an annual pass.
- E-cash will replace paper tickets, and is deducted from the card when it is tapped on the farebox. When paying with e-cash, a 75 minute transfer is automatically loaded onto the card, eliminating the need for paper transfers.
- Peggo cards can be purchased for $5. However, for a limited time when riders purchase their card and use it within 90 days of purchase, the $5 will be refunded to the card as e-cash.
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