St. Louis Metro Transit has taken a significant step forward in its fare modernisation programme, announcing the launch of Account-Based Ticketing (ABT) in partnership with Masabi. The new system enables contactless ‘tap-to-pay’ travel across parts of the MetroLink network, with a full rollout expected across all stations in the coming weeks.
The upgrade represents the next phase in a wider digital ticketing journey that began with the introduction of mobile ticketing through Masabi in June 2025. Now, the agency has unified its ecosystem into a fully account-based platform, integrating the Ride On app, Transit app and a newly introduced Ride On smartcard.
Seamless, multimodal travel across bus and rail
The ABT system simplifies the passenger experience across both bus and light rail services. On MetroBus, customers can tap their Ride On smartcard or scan a barcode using either the Ride On or Transit apps when boarding. Meanwhile, on MetroLink services, the functionality extends further: passengers can tap or scan to open fare gates and pay simultaneously.
At present, gate-based access is available at selected MetroLink stations, but the entire network is expected to be enabled as deployment progresses.
Fare capping brings flexibility and affordability
A key feature of the new platform is built-in fare capping. Passengers will never pay more than $5 per day or $78 per month, irrespective of how frequently they travel. Once these thresholds are reached, further journeys within the capped period incur no additional cost.
This approach effectively delivers the benefits of a season ticket without requiring customers to commit upfront. However, those who prefer a traditional model can still purchase monthly passes directly via their account within the Ride On or Transit apps.
Ticket vending machines fully integrated
Metro Transit has also ensured that its ticket vending machines (TVMs) are fully aligned with the new account-based system. Riders can purchase tickets and load value directly onto their Ride On account through the machines.
Crucially, users with a registered Ride On smartcard can simply tap at a TVM to access their account, enabling the system to display tailored fare options based on eligibility. This includes automatically applying concessions for passengers entitled to reduced fares.
Leadership perspective: a transformation, not an upgrade
“This is more than an update. It's a transformation of how the bi-state region experiences transit, and it would not have been possible without partners who believed in it alongside us,” said Taulby Roach, President & CEO of Bi-State Development, which operates Metro Transit.
“Account-Based Ticketing removes complexity for both riders and the agency, delivering the flexibility to offer fair, equitable pricing across every channel," added Brian Zanghi, CEO at Masabi. "With ABT now live across the network and integrated directly with MetroLink's fare gates, Metro Transit riders can simply tap and ride, confident that the system will always find them the best fare. We are delighted to be supporting Metro Transit as they take this significant step forward in their fare modernization journey."
A model for modern transit systems
Metro Transit serves the Greater St. Louis region across Missouri and Illinois, operating MetroLink light rail, MetroBus services and Call-A-Ride paratransit. The introduction of ABT marks a pivotal milestone in its ambition to deliver a more accessible, equitable and user-friendly transport network.
For transport professionals in the UK rail sector, the rollout highlights a growing global trend towards frictionless travel and integrated ticketing systems. With fare capping, multimodal access and account-based platforms becoming standard, the St. Louis deployment offers a clear example of how legacy systems can evolve to meet modern passenger expectations.
Image credits: Temono
