Fare Vending Machine Replacement Project

Metro is embarking on a program to procure, test, and install new fare vending machines (FVM) at all Metrorail mezzanines, including the exit fare machines on the paid side of the faregates, about 450 in all. The fare vendors are now 40 years old and parts like the patron screen and keypads are no longer available. While many customers have switched to using SmarTrip in mobile wallets for Apple and Android phones, Metro is committed to providing our customers multiple convenient options for paying fares. This not a true replacement project because the new system will have a smaller number of machines than are currently in use due to the expanding use of mobile wallets and the upcoming implementation of open payments (using credit cards instead of SmarTrip cards to tap and pay). There will also be only a single type of machine whereas now we have cash-only, cash-and-credit, and exit fare vendors.