Transit Windsor has introduced the Umo fare management system, offering riders a new way to pay fares, manage accounts, and plan trips. This digital platform, launched on Monday, combines digital fare payments, reloadable cards, and real-time transit information in one convenient system. James Chacko, executive director of Transit Windsor, highlighted that Umo aims to enhance convenience and modernize the transit experience by integrating payment options, trip planning, and real-time bus updates.
Riders can utilize the Umo Mobility app to purchase passes, add funds, check balances, review trip history, plan routes, and access real-time transit details. For those without smartphones or who prefer physical cards, Umo offers reloadable cards for purchase. Cash payments will still be accepted. The new Umo cards cost $6, the same as the previous smart passes. Existing Transit Windsor smart card holders can exchange their cards for Umo cards at no extra cost.
Transit Windsor is facilitating a transition period for users of the old fare system. Current smart card and Easy CST users can continue using their cards until December 31, after which any remaining balances must be used. Unused balances cannot be transferred to Umo cards due to the system transition. Chacko emphasized that the transition period allows riders to exhaust their balances effectively.
The Umo project, costing $3.5 million, forms part of Transit Windsor’s modernization efforts. Funding from the federal and provincial governments, through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, supported this initiative. The project also includes enhancements to onboard communication technology, with future plans to replace fareboxes across the Transit Windsor fleet. Chacko reassured that initial capital costs have been covered by grants and municipal funding, anticipating minimal ongoing operating expenses.
The overarching objective is to improve the Transit Windsor service for all riders, ensuring a dependable, reliable, and enjoyable experience. Chacko reiterated the commitment to making Transit Windsor the best it can be for regular commuters, occasional users, and tourists alike.