Nov. 18, 2021

Chicago’s Metra train system will install new ticket vending machines next year, as the board of directors has approved a $70 million contract with VenTek International to purchase and maintain 650 machines, according to a Daily Herald report.

In mid-2022, older units at downtown stations and Metra Electric stops will be replaced.

In addition, 75 machines will be deployed at strategic stations to test a “proof-of-payment” fare system.

In phase two, 350 machines will be installed to provide a machine at all 242 train stations.

To read the full story, please click here.

Published in The Daily News by Matt Surtel

There’s a more-than-familiar aspect to visiting Letchworth State Park.

You drive up and pay the entrance fee — always handing your money to a friendly staffer, as it’s been for decades.

But now there’s a new option.

Brand-new automated payment stations have been installed at the Castile and Mount Morris entrances, with others planned for Perry and Portageville.

The payoff?

For the first time ever, people can pay the entrance fee by credit card, or by inserting cash, or even just scanning their drivers license if they met “Golden Park” eligibility requirements.

To read the full story, please click here.

Exclusive interview with the NICTD in August’s edition of Business Review USA

Chief Information Officer Boris Matakovic speaks with Business Review USA regarding how South Shore railway in Indiana is in the process of transforming its services to meet modern-day demands.

Operating since 1908, surviving financial crashes and the increased popularity of the car, NICTD has had to revolutionize its business model to appeal to consumers and corporate businesses. The company has placed significant investment within its technological infrastructure, providing a multitude of benefits for users on the move.

“The implementation of Wi-Fi has improved relations with our existing customer base, and it’s something that really does attract people to our service,” comments Matakovic.

Despite its advantages, such as cheaper costs to travel via rail than by car, the company is still undergoing a number of challenges, but remains steadfast in its commitment to both staff, with a high retention rate, besides customers who utilize public transport rather than drive.

“People can buy their train tickets right on their smartphones because basically everybody owns their own ticket kiosk at that point,” adds Matakovic.

To discover the full story, click here to read the magazine  and here for the brochure