News
Metro to Activate New Fare Collection System and Security Gates on July 6
[ST. LOUIS, MO/July 1, 2026] Metro Transit will begin activating its next generation fare collection system and automated security gates at 13 MetroLink stations on Monday, July 6, marking a major milestone in Metro Transit’s ongoing transformation into a safer, more secure, and more customer-focused transit system.
The activation of the new fare and gate technology represents the culmination of a multi-year investment in Metro Transit’s Secure Platform Plan, which has transformed MetroLink from an open-platform system into a controlled-access transit environment designed to enhance safety, security, and the overall customer experience.
“This is more than an upgrade, it’s a transformation of how our region experiences transit,” said Taulby Roach, President and CEO of Bi-State Development. “This is the moment our customers will begin experiencing firsthand how our new fare technology and automatic security gates improve the overall transit experience. We made a promise to deliver a safer, more reliable, and more secure transit system, and we’re delivering on it.”
The July 6 activation represents the first phase of a three-phase implementation plan that will introduce integrated fare collection technology and independent gate access throughout the MetroLink system. Customers using upgraded stations will be able to validate their fare and access platforms through newly installed automatic security gates using mobile fare technology, smart fare media, or ticket vending machine purchases.
The first phase includes 13 MetroLink stations, consisting of eight stations in Missouri and five stations in Illinois:
- Central West End
• Civic Center
• College
• Cortex
• Delmar Loop
• East Riverfront
• Emerson Park
• Forest Park-DeBaliviere
• Grand
• Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center
• North Hanley
• Union Station
• Washington Park
Phase Two is scheduled for July 27, and when combined with Phase One, will bring 26 MetroLink platforms online with integrated fare collection and automated gate access. These locations account for approximately 91% of all MetroLink fare sales systemwide.
Phase Three is currently scheduled for August 17, pending the delivery and installation of remaining Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs). This final phase will activate 12 of the remaining 13 stations, completing implementation across virtually the entire MetroLink network. The new MidAmerica Airport MetroLink Station is expected to come online separately later this year.
Support personnel will remain deployed at Phase One locations following activation to assist customers as they transition to the new system. This customer-focused deployment strategy will continue through each phase of implementation to provide direct assistance and ensure riders become comfortable with the new system.
For information about the new fare collection system, station upgrades, and how to prepare for the transition, visit MetroStLouis.org/NextGenFare.