Transit officials outline Omni system changes for Beeline Westchester bus riders

During a recent Joint Senate Standing Committee Meeting, significant discussions centered around the transition to the Omni fare payment system for the Bee-Line bus service in Westchester County. As the state moves towards fully implementing Omni by the end of the year, concerns were raised about how this change will affect current riders, particularly those who rely on cash payments.

The transition from the MetroCard to Omni has sparked worries among Bee-Line bus riders regarding the loss of transferable fare options. Many riders are accustomed to using the MetroCard for both the Bee-Line buses and subway services, and the shift to Omni raises questions about the accessibility and usability of the new system. Officials acknowledged that educating riders on how to navigate the Omni system is crucial for a smooth transition.

Currently, approximately 30 percent of Bee-Line riders still pay their fares in cash, and existing fare boxes are not fully equipped to accept all payment methods. Many riders are limited to using quarters, which presents a challenge as the system evolves. To address this, plans are in place to upgrade fare boxes to accept dollar bills and other forms of payment, ensuring that cash-paying riders are not left behind during the transition.

In addition to the Omni implementation, the meeting also touched on the reverse commute on the Harlem line to White Plains, which is noted as one of the busiest reverse commutes in the system. This highlights the ongoing need for efficient transportation solutions in the region.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting underscored the importance of not only implementing new technology but also ensuring that all riders are informed and accommodated during the transition. As the state prepares for the Omni rollout, the focus will remain on enhancing rider experience and accessibility in public transportation.