MARTA will replace its entire fare collection system over the next six months, with a goal of spring 2026 for implementation and customer transition.
Officials made the announcement at a press call on Monday at Lindbergh Station, where the new fare technology has already been installed.
The system will retain the popular Breeze name, but fare collection equipment, including Breeze cards and tickets, faregates, vending machines, and the mobile app, will be updated and modernized, along with fareboxes in later project phases.
The new system will allow open payment where riders can tap their bank card, smartphone, or mobile wallet to pay for their ride. Fare will remain $2.50 for a one-way trip.
“It’s great to keep fares unchanged for years, but not an entire fare collection system,” said MARTA Interim General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt said. “MARTA is implementing some incredible projects and initiatives next year ahead of the World Cup, including new trains, a new bus network with on demand transit zones, a new bus rapid transit line, and a new On the Go app and MARTA website. We need to ensure our Breeze system is aligned with these once-in-a-generation improvements and ready for the future.”
MARTA began installing new fare equipment at Lindbergh Center Station on Sept. 22 and at Doraville on Oct. 8. The installation of new contactless payment terminals on buses began in mid-September. The installation of new equipment will continue systemwide in phases until the customer transition period next April.
Officials said customers should pay attention to signs and announcements at rail stations denoting which faregates are closed for construction to ensure smooth travels. Note that this is a systemwide project and the phased construction approach will mean new faregates may be installed but not yet usable. Current Breeze cards and mobile app will not work on the new fare equipment.
Customers should continue using the existing Breeze mobile app, fare media and equipment. Access to all rail stations will be maintained and there will be a monthlong period in spring 2026 for customers to transition from the current Breeze system to the Better Breeze system.