TRANSACTIONS NEWSLETTER ONLINE

Credit cards come in many patterns and colors, although they sport the universal Visa or MasterCard symbol. As initially conceptualized, the TransLink® smart card could function in much the same way. Under this scenario, each Bay Area transit agency could arrange for a tailor-made version of TransLink® to reflect its own logo, colors and vehicles (similar to the prototype cards shown here). Beneath the surface, whether red, blue, green or orange, the TransLink® ticket would contain the same computer chip that makes it a smart card. Then again, MTC and the transit operators may ultimately opt for a single Bay Area-wide look, or a series of cards commemorating certain events or places. Tourists merit special treatment. For this market, MTC will issue disposable cards in preset amounts. These might be imprinted with images of popular tourist destinations, such as the Golden Gate Bridge. Don't be surprised if TransLink® cards, both disposable and permanent, become collector's items!

Contents

• Focus on Smart Cards
• Front Page
• Bay Area Sees a Future in Plastic
• TransLink® Q & A
• Smart Cards Around the World
• A Rainbow of Options
• When will the next bus arrive? Live information displays at bus stops.
• News Briefs -- Regional Transportation Plan, federal funding, state transportation funding shortfall, Gateway Park
• In Print -- Regional Transit Guide