Electronic transit fare system coming to Squamish Transit

March 13, 2023

A new electronic fare collection system that provides increased flexibility and convenience to transit users is coming to Squamish. The new “Umo” system will allow riders to pay for fares with a variety of payment methods. Initially, riders will be able to pay by mobile app or new reloadable smart card; in the future, payments by personal credit/debit cards and mobile wallets will be enabled. Smart cards will be reloadable either in person at a vendor location or online. Cash will continue to be supported aboard the bus for those riders who prefer to use it. While the new system will introduce new payment options to match riders’ travel habits and lifestyle, the price of passes and individual rides will remain the same.

“This is a great new system that will help to remove barriers and make it easier for people to hop on the bus without having to scramble for exact change or passes,” says District of Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford. “It’s our hope that these changes will encourage folks to more frequently incorporate our transit system into their day-to-day travel or commute.”

System benefits:

• Increased convenience for purchasing fares
• Optional auto-renew function
• Seamless interregional transit
• Contactless payment

Umo App Features: 

• Trip planning tools allow you to set your location, enter your destination and select your route
• Option to purchase a transit pass or add funds to a reloadable account
• Pay on the bus using the app
• Real-time technology allows you to track your bus along its route

BC Transit’s Electronic Fare Collection System Project is funded in part through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program and the Government of Canada. The District is one of 30 transit systems across the province set to implement Umo. The new electronic fare collection system is expected to be operational in Squamish by summer 2023.

More information about BC Transit’s coming Umo system can be found at bctransit.com/umo.

Download the app today and get ready for summer with Umo!

March 13, 2023