Metra kicks off machine-only ticket sales at BNSF stations
Metra’s shift from humans to machines selling train tickets at stations on the BNSF Line Monday left a number of veteran commuters unfazed during the morning rush.
“I buy all my tickets on my phone anyway,” said Andrea Ares who travels from Downers Grove to downtown.
“I don’t think it will affect me too much,” Ares added, however she was concerned for older passengers accustomed to purchasing rides from ticket agents.
Metra is installing ticket machines at stations throughout its system, starting with the busiest ones. Ticket sales by agents were halted on the BNSF Monday.
On Feb. 1, a similar policy will go into effect on all lines and at downtown stations.
The changes are part of a huge restructuring of Metra’s fares intended to simplify transactions by having four instead of 10 zones. The new fare system begins Feb. 1.
Tickets can be purchased through the Ventra app, from machines and from conductors.
Regular rider Dan Bowden wasn’t bothered by the switch.
“I’ve got multiple options. I can go through my phone and get it on the app. I can get it from a machine,” he said at the Downers Grove station. However, Bowden and others noted they didn’t want any Metra ticket agents to lose their jobs.
“No one is being laid off,” Metra spokesman Michael Gillis said.
“The agents will remain at stations that are currently staffed, providing travel and schedule information, assistance with machines and assistance with other customer matters. They would generally be on site for the busy times.”
Passenger Keith Veselak scrutinized a ticketing machine installed outside the Downers Grove station.
The inspection wasn’t for himself but his daughter, Veselak explained.
“At least now this is here all the time (and) you don’t have to worry if there’s no one in the ticket window,” he said.
Gillis said the new policy would not impact when stations are opened and closed.
Currently, BNSF stations with machines are in Aurora, Route 59, Naperville, Lisle, Belmont, Downers Grove Main Street, Hinsdale, and LaGrange Road.
A ticketing machine is scheduled for installation at the Western Springs station in February.