Kitimat Council has approved the introduction of a rolling 30-day transit pass, a change aligned with the forthcoming implementation of BC Transit’s electronic fare collection system, Umo, scheduled for summer 2024.
A BC Transit representative detailed the features of the Umo system during a March 17 special council meeting.
The system will replace the current fixed-period monthly pass with a rolling 30-day pass that becomes valid from the first use and lasts for 30 days.
“This change is aimed at providing greater convenience by allowing purchase and activation of the pass at any time, removing the restriction of a calendar-month basis,” she said.
Council’s approval was necessary as the new system will modify how fares are calculated and collected, requiring a formal adjustment to the public transit fare policy.
The new system will accept payment via a physical card or a mobile app.
The cost for single trips and other fare products will remains the same.
The Umo system also introduces a cash balance option, allowing users to pre-load funds for fare payment.
It will also include new policies such as refunds for unused fare products, and a universal expiration policy where fare products expire 365 days after purchase.
BC Transit planned to meet with the Regional District of Kitimat Stikine on March 22 to review fare and transfer arrangements between Terrace and Kitimat.
The talks are key to adopting a unified regional fare system. It’s believed about 10 customers regularly travel between the two municipalities.
The change aims to increase convenience for transit users, while the capacity for more accurate data collection will allow BC Transit to better track ridership for improved service and scheduling.
The system is expected to phase out paper tickets, with a dedicated support team in place to assist users during a six-month transition.