BC Transit’s new digital fare payment system is set to roll out across the Okanagan.
Umo (pronounced “you-mo”) was announced in January 2022.
The system is live in more than 10 other transit systems in the province, having launched first in Victoria and most recently in Kamloops.
The system will be launched regionally in a few weeks, although no specific date announced, and BC Transit is hosting a series of in-person engagement events to help transit users understand the new system.
Essentially, it will introduce the choice of using the Umo Mobility app or a reloadable Umo card as their payment method.
Riders will need to open the app and scan a QR code on the new onboard validators that are being installed on buses throughout the city.
The reloadable card would be available for free from any BC Transit Umo vendor and can be topped up with fare through a vendor, online or by calling the customer service call centre at 877-380-8181.
They would simply need to be tapped on the new validators.
In Kamloops, the monthly passes are being phased out to introduce a new 30-day pass and the 10-pack of bus tickets are also being phased out. Cash fares are being maintained, however.
It has not yet been revealed if this same process will happen across the Okanagan.
More information is available at bctransit.com/umo, including step-by-step guides on how to use the app and the reloadable cards. BC Transit representatives will be at the information sessions to answer questions and talk about the new payment options.
To view more information, including dates and locations for the information sessions in the South Okanagan-Similkameen, Kelowna Regional Transit System and Vernon Regional Transit System, head on over to this link.
All sessions are happening Tuesday, Feb. 27 and Friday, Mar. 1.
