Rhode Island proposes ticketing app for MBTA, Amtrak riders

February 29, 2016 1:50 pm

By The Associated Press

news@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) _ Rhode Island officials are working to develop a smartphone-based ticketing system for rail commuters traveling between Providence and Boston.

Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo has set aside $1.5 million in her annual budget proposal to create what’s called the “Rhody Pass.”

The smartphone app would allow commuters using Amtrak or the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority to find a train and buy a ticket. It might also offer fare discounts.

Rhode Island Commerce Secretary Stefan Pryor says the state has begun conversations about the app with Amtrak and the MBTA.

A state-commissioned economic strategy report from the Brookings Institution came up with the idea for the ticketing app.

Easing commutes between the two state capitals is part of Raimondo’s broader push to strengthen economic links between Rhode Island and greater Boston.