Post by SS San Mateo on Apr 20, 2007 16:09:39 GMT -8
Washington State Ferries' new electronic ticketing system is supposed to be faster, easier and more convenient for travelers. In its first few days on Seattle-based routes, however, the new setup is getting mixed reviews.
Some walk-on passengers, in particular, say the system works quickly, and simplifies things. They like the convenience of slipping a bar-coded ticket or monthly pass through a turnstile scanner.
"In some ways, it's just easier," said Mary Selby, a University of Washington student who commutes to class from Bremerton.
But others say the $13.6-million system is slower because one ticket per car must be scanned individually at booths. And since printed ticket books are on the way out, tickets no longer can be divided among family and friends.
"It's not time-efficient," said Becky Toplowski of Silverdale, noting the presence of ferry system staff to help riders negotiate new electronic turnstiles.
Some walk-on passengers, in particular, say the system works quickly, and simplifies things. They like the convenience of slipping a bar-coded ticket or monthly pass through a turnstile scanner.
"In some ways, it's just easier," said Mary Selby, a University of Washington student who commutes to class from Bremerton.
But others say the $13.6-million system is slower because one ticket per car must be scanned individually at booths. And since printed ticket books are on the way out, tickets no longer can be divided among family and friends.
"It's not time-efficient," said Becky Toplowski of Silverdale, noting the presence of ferry system staff to help riders negotiate new electronic turnstiles.
More at:
seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/310681_ticket07.html
