Compass cards fully implemented

TransLink began full implementation of the Compass Card at the start of January as fare gates across the SkyTrain system fully closed for the first time.

As the reloadable card becomes standard use, transit users across Metro Vancouver are being reminded to be sure they tap in and out on buses, trains and the SeaBus to avoid being charged the wrong fare.

In the fall, hundreds of monthly pass holders were charged for more zones than they travelled because they forgot to tap out as the Compass Card began its gradual phase-in.

The new system has been dogged by delays since then-transportation minister Kevin Falcon ordered the installation of SkyTrain fare gates in 2007. The first fare gate to handle the Compass Card wasn’t installed until August 2012.

Initially budgeted at $174 million, the Compass program is estimated to have cost almost $200 million.

TransLink’s inability to get the long-awaited project running was cited as a major factor in the public voting down a tax increase to fund extra transit in a plebiscite in summer 2015.

Jordan Bateman of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation said he will be watching closely how the new tapin, tap-out system works.

“It has been a textbook case of mismanagement. There are bound to be glitches,” he said, adding he was concerned how the system will cope during rush hour.

Compass Cards are available at any new vending machine at SkyTrain, Canada Line, SeaBus and West Coast Express stations, at select London Drugs stores, online at compasscard. ca or by phone at 604-398-2042.