Spring 2025 Program to Feature Online Account-based System

Highlighted with Fare-Capping

Allentown, PA (112224) —- Lehigh and Northampton Transportation Authority (LANTA) has announced that next Spring it will take another major step in fulfilling its Moving LANTA Forward long-range plan. With the introduction of ValleyRide, LANTA’s newly branded modern fare collection system, the Authority “will give riders a 21st-century solution that makes it smoother, faster and more equitable,” said Executive Director Owen O’Neil.

In the announcement O’Neil stressed “with ValleyRide we are introducing a more efficient, user-friendly experience for both riders and bus operators. By simplifying the fare collection process, we can reduce boarding times and improve overall efficiency, making the daily commute faster and more convenient.”

Among the highlighted features of ValleyRide is the concept of fare-capping, which enables riders to save on daily or monthly passes without having to pay higher upfront costs. As soon as riders take the predetermined number of trips, their ValleyRide account will automatically reduce the cost to the lowest available for the time period.

ValleyRide will provide riders with the choice of either using a SmartCard or online-based account to pay fares with a smart phone. In addition, LANTA will still accept cash payment on buses, but those payments will not be associated with a SmartCard or a ValleyRide Account. ValleyRide SmartCards and online accounts work much like those used by fast food and other industries, including automatic or manual refilling.

To take full advantage of the ValleyRide savings riders will be advised to consistently use either the SmartCard or online-based account. The SmartCards will be available online as well as select locations through the Lehigh Valley.

Among other major elements of the Moving LANTA Forward initiative completed in recent years has been the introduction of the Green Line and Blue Line Enhanced Bus Service (EBS) routes. EBS is LANTA’s bus rapid transit type service providing higher frequencies and shorter travel times between the major destinations of the Lehigh Valley.

 

Information provided to TVL by:
Chuck Genna