Transit Payment Cards

The Monterey-Salinas Transit District (MST) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) #26-01 seeking innovative solutions for reloadable contactless EMV (cEMV) transit payment cards across California transit agencies. The procurement targets banks, credit unions, financial institutions, FinTech companies, prepaid payment card issuers, cash load networks, and payment platforms licensed in California. MST is specifically looking for a merchant-restricted prepaid card solution that allows cash-using riders to easily load funds onto physical and/or digital payment cards compatible with existing transit validators. Key deliverables include a comprehensive payment system with cash load options, reloadable accounts, physical and digital card credentials, contactless EMV technology, card distribution, and customer service capabilities. The RFI was posted on July 25, 2025, with questions due by August 8, 2025, and a final submittal deadline of September 6, 2025. The agency anticipates fully implementing the new payment system by the end of 2026, with an ideal launch date of November 2026 for a baseline functional card set. MST plans to distribute approximately 75,000 cards annually and seeks a solution that supports fare-capping and potential future expansion to other mobility services.

The RFI does not explicitly outline set-aside designations or specific restrictions on responding organizations, though it indicates a preference for California-licensed entities. The proposed solution should support an Open Loop ecosystem compatible with multiple transit agencies' infrastructure, with potential integration into existing digital payment platforms like Apple Pay and Google Pay. While no incumbent vendors are directly mentioned, the RFI suggests a transition from legacy ticket systems to a modern, reloadable card platform. The agency currently lacks cash-loading infrastructure and plans to phase out cash collection on transit vehicles. Although no specific budget range is provided, the scope of the project suggests a significant investment in developing a statewide interoperable transit payment system. The broader context includes support from the California State Transportation Agency, Caltrans, and the California Integrated Travel Project (Cal-ITP), indicating potential for widespread adoption across the state's transit networks.