Knoxville Transit Launches Cashless Payment System katpay

News Summary

Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) is set to launch the katpay system on October 23, 2024, offering a cashless payment option for bus riders. The new system aims to enhance convenience by eliminating cash and paper tickets and allowing payments via a katpay card or mobile account. A grace period until January 31, 2025, will allow users to transition comfortably, and a promotion will offer credits for early adopters. KAT is actively engaging the community to ensure a smooth rollout as part of their broader aim to improve public transportation.

Knoxville Gets Ready for a Cashless Commute with katpay!

Exciting news for all bus riders in Knoxville! The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) is rolling out a new payment system called katpay, designed to make it easier for you to hop on board. Starting October 23, 2024, it’s all about going cashless. Yes, that’s right! You can say goodbye to fumbling for change or digging through your pockets for old paper tickets.

What’s Changing?

With the launch of katpay, cash and paper tickets will no longer be accepted on KAT buses. Instead, you’ll have a new way to pay that’s modern and user-friendly. Riders can now pay using exact change or by loading money onto a katpay card or a mobile account. The idea is to streamline the boarding process, making it quicker and more convenient for everyone.

Old Paper Pass? No Problem!

Got an old paper pass lying around? Don’t worry! KAT has got you covered. You can trade in those old paper passes for credit to your new katpay account at the customer service desk. It’s a hassle-free way to transition into this exciting new system!

A Grace Period for Transitioning

Feeling a bit hesitant about going cashless? KAT understands that this is a big change, and that’s why they’re offering a temporary grace period. You can still use paper tickets until January 31, 2025, so you have time to adjust to this new way of paying!

Setting Up Your katpay Account

Getting started with katpay is super easy! Riders can create an account either through the Transit app or on the official website. Plus, if you want a physical card, you can grab a plastic katpay card for just $4, though the first card is free for a limited time. That’s a great deal, isn’t it?

Extra Perks Await!

From October 23 to December 31, KAT has a special promotion in place. You’ll earn a $4 credit just for buying a katpay card or creating a mobile account. If you’re a frequent bus rider, you’ll be happy to know that the daily fare is capped at just $2, while a monthly limit will max out at $30. And there are even discounted fares available for those who qualify!

Community Engagement

To ensure everyone is well-informed, KAT held a public information meeting on September 16, 2024. During this session, the community learned all about katpay and how it will change the bus riding experience. Additionally, the Knoxville Transportation Authority Board is set to discuss the katpay plan at their meeting on September 26, 2024, ensuring that community feedback continues to shape this transition.

All Part of a Bigger Picture

Importantly, the introduction of the katpay system follows KAT’s recent bus route reconfiguration that took effect on August 26, 2024. These updates are all about enhancing the rider experience and making public transportation more efficient and user-friendly.

Time to Embrace the Change!

With all these new updates and features, Knoxville’s bus riders are in for a treat! The new katpay system promises an easy, quick, and efficient payment method that reflects the needs of today’s riders. As October 23 approaches, be sure to get ready for this exciting new rollout and prepare for a cashless journey around town!