Transit Cape Breton users can now ‘tap and ride’

Transit Cape Breton has introduced a new “tape and ride” feature on its buses.

Transit Cape Breton has launched its new “tap and ride” fare system.

As of Monday, riders can now pay for their bus ride using the new Umo app, a reusable reloadable transit card, a debit or credit card or exact cash.

The transit cards are available for $10 at the Citizen Service Centre. Funds can be added online or in person at city hall.

Paper tickets will continue to be accepted, but only until Dec. 31.

The new system has a new flat fare of $2.50 one way anywhere within the Cape Breton Regional Municipality. Previous fare zones have been eliminated.

Riders can also transfer between buses for free after their initial payment.

Mayor Cecil Clarke calls it a “major modernization” of public transit in the region.

“Whether you ride every day or are trying transit for the first time, the new system is designed to make using transit simple, flexible and convenient,” he said in a news release.

Discounted, unlimited ride passes are available for youth, students and seniors for $66.

The regular rate for an unlimited ride transit pass is $82.50.

Children 10 years of age and under ride for free and they must be accompanied by an adult.

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