You’ll soon be able to tap your phone to purchase a Virginia Railway Express ticket.
The commuter railroad on May 15 will roll out its first-ever mobile ticketing system. Riders will be able to purchase any VRE ticket – single ride, two ride, five-day pass, monthly ticket, Amtrak Step-Up ticket – with the push of a button on their mobile device.
“We’re working on a way for people to avoid ticketing and vending machines, and to makes rides easier for our customers,” said VRE spokesman Brian Jungwirth.
Riders will also be able to use transit benefits with the new mobile service.
Users must download an app to their phone that will allow them to use a credit card to buy their tickets. When it’s time to validate the ticket, a train conductor will ask to be shown riders’ cell phone screens, where the ticket will be displayed. Jungwirth said the screen would have an animated background and a QR code, so conductors know the difference between an actual mobile ticket and a computer screenshot counterfeit version.
Mobile ticketing has been in the works for years at VRE. A request for proposals to vendors who could deliver the service went out in 2013. In September of that same year, VRE awarded a $3.2 million contract to Portland, Ore.-based Globe Sherpa to deliver the ticketing system.
A similar mobile ticketing system is being used at TriMet, a public transit system in the Portland area, according to VRE meeting minutes from September 2013.
VRE users were excited about the prospect of mobile ticketing. More than 600 users signed up to beta test the new system in the first hour after VRE made a request for testers, Jungwirth said.
Moblie tickets will not replace paper tickets, according to VRE documents.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
(Webinar) Diet & Dementia: Brain-Healthy Tips to Reduce Your Risk…
Did you know that your food choices can impact your risk of developing dementia?
Kick off National Nutrition Month with an educational discussion on Wednesday, March 5 at 12 PM EST with Sunday Health dementia neurologist Dr. Sara Doyle and
