(SEPTA is already going to do a version of public banking | Image: SEPTA)

SEPTA Key implementation achieved some new milestones in the past month, with the Zone 4 regional rail rollout, elimination of paper transfers, and now, the apparent introduction of prepaid debit card features that could function as a basic checking account for some riders.

(Photo credit: PlanPhilly)

After years of waiting and frustrating delays, SEPTA riders are finally getting a modern card payment system. Not only will we be able to use credit cards to pay for transit rides, and automatically refill our passes online, the payment system will introduce the city to a brand new technology--a technology that could combine with policy changes to drastically increase transit ridership, and meaningfully change the way Philadelphia residents and visitors get around our city.