Cloud-Hosted Fare Transformation
As Atlanta prepares to host eight matches during one of the world’s largest sporting events in 2026, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is undertaking a comprehensive upgrade of its fare collection infrastructure. The goal: deliver a system capable of supporting substantial visitor numbers while modernising long-standing technology.
INIT was selected to implement one of the first fully cloud-hosted ticketing systems in the U.S., supporting contactless payments, mobile wallets and scalable real-time processing. The programme includes 1,800+ validators, 275 ticket vending machines and 500+ modern fare gates — nearly half ADA-compliant — across bus and rail. The result is an event-ready platform built for long-term efficiency and growth.
Highlights:
- 1,800+ validators
- 500+ modern fare gates
- 275 ticket vending machines
- Cloud-based, scalable platform
Host city for 8 matches
The architecture supports contactless EMV bank cards, mobile wallets and smart devices, alongside real-time transaction processing and scalable back-office management. The hardware deployment is equally significant, with accessibility at the forefront and nearly half of the fare gates being fully ADA-compliant. These upgrades improve ease of access, reduce queuing and enhance passenger throughput at major stations.
Phased implementation began in 2024, prioritising high-traffic corridors and interchange stations. Full rollout is scheduled for completion in Spring 2026, allowing time for system testing and operational readiness before peak event travel.
Beyond the sporting event, the cloud-hosted system provides MARTA with a future-proof platform. Enhanced data insight, improved revenue management and flexible fare configuration support long-term growth and policy development.
By combining event readiness with sustainable infrastructure investment, MARTA and INIT are delivering a fare system designed to perform on a global stage — and continue serving Atlanta for decades to come.
See how cloud-based fare technology can prepare your network for peak demand while delivering long-term transformation.