Metra, the Chicago area's commuter train network, is introducing sweeping changes to its ticketing system that kicks in starting Thursday, betting big on technology to streamline its operations. In a bid to simplify the commuting process, Metra is condensing its decade-long 10-zone system down to just four zones. The shake-up also includes trimming ticket types and favoring digital purchases over human interaction.
Under the new structure, all four downtown stations will fall into Zone 1, while Zone 2 will cater to nearby Chicago areas such as Evanston. The revamp means Zone 3 will now encircle suburbs like Arlington Heights and Lombard, while Zone 4 will encompass far-off towns including Naperville and Geneva. In what might seem like a mixed bag for travelers, the 10-Ride ticket, a staple of the Metra system, is on its way out, replaced by a Day Pass 5-Pack exclusively available on the Ventra app, as NBC Chicago noted.
Physical ticket sales at stations will cease across all lines, encouraging commuters to either use the newly installed vending machines or the trusty Ventra app on their smartphones. Conductors will continue to sell one-way tickets and weekend passes directly on the train without any immediate surcharges. Nevertheless, Metra's CEO Jim Derwinski has indicated that "customer response teams" are set to replace ticket agents at stations to help with rider inquiries, as reported by the Daily Herald.
Price-wise, a one-way ticket from Zone 2 to downtown Chicago will run for $3.75, while a journey from Zone 4 to the heart of the city will set passengers back $6.75. Metra officials claim that nearly all lines will experience a drop in fares with some, exceptions like the Metra Electric Line, whose discounted fare program ends on Feb. 1. Meanwhile, Metra has laid plans to expand its reduced fare program, continuing to offer concessions for students, seniors, and even low-income residents across several counties in Illinois.
Despite the sweeping modifications, some long-time Metra users like Andrea Ares seem unperturbed, "I buy all my tickets on my phone anyway," she told the Daily Herald. Others, however, aren't as receptive. RTA board member Bill Coulson aired his concerns, cautioning that ditching the 10-ride ticket might alienate sporadic travelers and the elderly—a demographic that could be at a hurdle without ticket agents to guide them.
