Milwaukee County Transit introduces Wisco cashless fare system and app integration

The Beloit City Council meeting held on August 4, 2025, included discussions focused on improving public transportation and enhancing rider convenience. The meeting began with a presentation on the new cashless fare system, known as Wisco, which aims to streamline payment options for riders. City officials emphasized the importance of making transit accessible and user-friendly, particularly for students.

During the discussion, it was noted that the city is collaborating with local schools to promote the new route and fare system. The integration of an infotainment system was also mentioned as a potential tool for communicating updates and information to current riders.

Additionally, the council highlighted the availability of bike racks on buses, which can accommodate two bikes at a time. This feature encourages a combination of biking and public transit, allowing riders to cycle to their bus stop before continuing their journey.

A question arose regarding the compatibility of the Wisco system with mobile payment options. Officials confirmed that riders would be able to pay using a mobile app, which can be funded by parents or guardians. They also mentioned the possibility of obtaining bus passes through local retailers, such as Walgreens, where users can add funds to their transit cards.

As the discussion progressed, the council decided to pause further deliberation on the fare system to allow for a more in-depth conversation in the following week’s meeting. This decision was made to ensure that all relevant information could be thoroughly addressed without rushing the topic.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to enhancing public transportation and ensuring that it meets the needs of the community. Further discussions are anticipated in the upcoming meeting, where additional details about the Wisco system and its implementation will be explored.