The MetroCard, a staple of New York’s transit system for over three decades, will be fully phased out by the end of 2025 as OMNY takes over. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

The MetroCard, a staple of New York’s transit system for over three decades, will be fully phased out by the end of 2025 as OMNY takes over
OMNY replaces the MetroCard in New York / Pixabay

The MTA officially announced that all MetroCard sales and distribution will stop on December 31, 2025. This move clears the way for OMNY, the modern contactless payment system, to become the city’s primary fare method.

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MetroCard to Be Replaced by Contactless OMNY System

OMNY lets riders pay for fares with contactless bank cards, smartphones, and smartwatches. It also supports its own OMNY card, available for purchase at retail stores, online, or select subway stations.

Accepted payment types include contactless credit and debit cards from Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, UnionPay, and JCB. Reloadable prepaid cards are also supported, enhancing flexibility for everyday commuters.

However, OMNY does not work with non-reloadable prepaid cards, PIN-only debit cards, or gift cards. Riders are urged to check compatibility before switching from the MetroCard.

MetroCard Phase-Out Expands OMNY Access Across NYC

Currently, OMNY is available on all MTA buses and subways, the Staten Island Railway, Roosevelt Island Tramway, the Hudson Rail Link, and the AirTrain at Howard Beach and Jamaica stations. The MTA plans to expand access even further.

The physical OMNY card costs $5 and can be loaded at thousands of locations. Customers can top up their cards easily, ensuring uninterrupted travel across the transit network.

Seniors and riders with disabilities can link their reduced fare accounts to OMNY and continue receiving discounted fares. Public school students receive free OMNY cards with four complimentary rides per day, usable every day of the year.

As the MetroCard approaches retirement, New Yorkers are encouraged to adopt OMNY early. This ensures a smooth transition and continued access to efficient, contactless transit.

Source: www.explica.me

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