PHILADELPHIA, PA (January 23, 2025) – The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) has officially awarded a significant $211 million contract to Cubic Transportation Systems, Inc., marking a major step forward in the modernization of its fare payment infrastructure. This contract, announced today, covers the design, installation, and operation of SEPTA’s innovative new fare system, known as “SEPTA Key 2.0”.
SEPTA Key 2.0 is envisioned as a next-generation system set to dramatically enhance the passenger experience while firmly establishing SEPTA as a forward-thinking leader in the public transportation sector. The upgrade addresses the growing need for a contemporary and reliable fare payment solution in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
“SEPTA’s current fare payment system is outdated and in dire need of an upgrade,” stated SEPTA Board Chairman Kenneth E. Lawrence Jr. “Originally designed over a decade ago, and considering the rapid advancements in technology, this critical investment is overdue.”
The new SEPTA Key 2.0 system promises to be more dependable and user-friendly, offering passengers a range of new features. These include virtual Key cards, support for equitable fare policies, and significant improvements to SEPTA’s website, mobile application, and customer service call center. These enhancements are designed to create a seamless and accessible experience for all riders.
“A modern and consistent fare payment system is absolutely vital to SEPTA’s success,” emphasized SEPTA Interim General Manager Scott A. Sauer. “It stands as a cornerstone of our system, alongside safety, reliability, and cleanliness. This essential project is necessary to ensure continued ridership growth and satisfaction.”
The decision to upgrade to SEPTA Key 2.0 was informed by a comprehensive passenger outreach campaign, ensuring that the new system aligns with the needs and expectations of the riding public. SEPTA issued its request for proposals in the spring of 2023 and subsequently conducted a rigorous review of the submissions received.
“We are profoundly grateful to the SEPTA Board for their vote of confidence in Cubic Transportation Systems,” said Peter Torrellas, President of Cubic Transportation Systems. “We eagerly anticipate modernizing Philadelphia’s public transportation system with our advanced fare collection technology, which has been designed and customized for major cities worldwide. Throughout the implementation process, we will work closely with SEPTA to ensure that Philadelphia’s transit system is state-of-the-art, providing an improved experience for every passenger.”
The design and implementation of SEPTA Key 2.0 are scheduled to commence immediately, with an anticipated completion date set for 2029. This long-term project underscores SEPTA’s commitment to providing a cutting-edge and efficient public transportation system for the Philadelphia region, powered by the expertise of cubic transportation systems.
For further details about SEPTA, please visit septa.org, follow @SEPTA on social media, or download the official SEPTA application from https://www.septa.org/service/new-app.html.
