New website, app, and payment methods to make transit riding easier and more accessible
Transit customers in the region will have access to an array of new improvements to the ORCA system beginning May 16. The system was first in launched 2009.
A new website, a smartphone-based app, and real-time balance loading are among the improvements available to commuters next week.
“We’re beginning to deliver the first features of the new ORCA system and appreciate the patience of riders as we pivot between vendors and launch improvements over the next few years,” said Christina O’Claire, ORCA Joint Board Chair and King County Metro Mobility Director. “Riders can keep using their existing ORCA cards, but also will be able to access updated features that will serve customers better.”
The new ORCA website, myORCA.com, will introduce real-time balance loading, mobile availability, as well as new payment methods, as well as the ability to manage multiple cards. The new website will also replace www.orcacard.biz as the location for employers to manage their ORCA programs. The smartphone app will let customers manage their accounts 24/7 from any location and be available on Apple’s App Store and the Google Play store.
New ORCA cards will not be required for commuters, but cardholders are encouraged to register their cards on myORCA.com website. Customers are still able to add balance to their cards at customer service locations, participating retailers, and vending machines.
No fares will be collected between 3:00 a.m. Saturday, May 14 and Monday, May 16 at 2:29 a.m. Washington State Ferry customers will not be charged during the no-fare weekend, but will need to present their ORCA card to attendants.
Customers can expected some service interruptions during the migration to the new system. The ORCA network involved over 6,000 pieces of equipment and 5 million accounts that will be transferred to the new system.
However, the brief interruptions will make transit riding easier once the upgrade to the new system is complete.
“When fully launched, the new ORCA system and features will make riding transit easier and more accessible and will help riders save money as they access the ever-expanding transit network in the Puget Sound region,” O’Claire said.
Single-ride and pass fares will remain the same. In late 2022 and 2023, ORCA will add more stores to its retail network and introduce a smartphone tap-to-pay option. ORCA will continue to work with and engage with customers to upgrade the system and add new features.
Visit http://myorca.com/ to learn more about the upcoming features and sign up for more updates.