STRIPE PASS BEGINS ITS RUN MAGNETIC CARD NEW TRANSIT STEP.

Byline: - Daily News

LANCASTER - The Antelope Valley Transit Authority (AVTA) continues to improve public transportation services for its passengers with the implementation of 31-day magnetic stripe passes.

Passengers will have the freedom to purchase their pass when it's convenient for them. The card is activated the first time it is used and is valid for unlimited rides until the date and time of expiration, which is printed on the back of the card. AVTA will benefit by being able to simplify the process of distributing passes and accounting for pass sales. Use of the 31-day pass will also provide AVTA with more accurate passenger information. Pass prices remain the same whether full or reduced fare.

``The magnetic stripe pass card is an introduction to the next step in technology - the smart card,'' said AVTA Executive Director Randy Floyd. ``The smart card being developed by the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in conjunction with the Los Angeles County municipal operators is a wallet-sized card that will allow passengers to board bus and rail systems in Los Angeles County. Use of the card will provide important ridership data to transit authorities. MTA is currently beta testing this system and hopes to implement it in the near future.''

Local transit service changes that include later evening hours, route extensions and the introduction of the Palmdale shopper's special, Route 8, will go into effect April 16. AVTA's commuter and medical shuttle passengers will begin using the new Palmdale Transportation Center at 6th Street East and Sierra Highway in Palmdale on April 25.

The transportation center will offer bus passengers 24-hour security, restrooms and vending machines. The pass-sales kiosk will be open Saturdays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, time schedules and route maps, log on to www.avta.com or call AVTA at [phone].