SEPTA is looking to ditch its current Key card vendor and replace it with open-source software that’s easier to update. City Cast Philly spoke with Jordan Levy, general assignment reporter for Billy Penn, about what that could mean for the transit card in your wallet.
Why does SEPTA want to get rid of the Key system?
“Essentially, what they want to do is be able to do is adjust quickly … For instance, when it comes to Regional Rail, they want to be able to make sure that Key cards are more functional. I think one other thing they want to be able to handle better on the card is free transfers whenever a rider might need them.”
What does this mean for riders?
“That remains to be seen. The request for proposals is due July 14th, and SEPTA is currently saying that they're not sure whether they'll see any of the rollout of the new software until 2025.”
As a SEPTA rider, what would you like to see change?
“I was able to upload and add funds to my travel wallet from my [SEPTA] app for a while and then that completely shut down … [So] the account-based issues, I think, are the biggest thing for me personally because functionality has generally been fine except for promises that you could add money anywhere, anytime, and those promises not being true.”
