Sound Transit to remove ORCA card readers from platforms at downtown light rail stations

SEATTLE — Sound Transit will soon remove ORCA card readers from the lower platform levels of its Link light rail stations in downtown Seattle.

Once the card readers are removed, riders will be required to purchase a ticket or tap their ORCA card at the mezzanine level before heading down to the train platform.

The transit agency says the move is meant to support its broader fare engagement reforms, ahead of a new fare compliance policy, which includes more warnings and non-monetary ways for passengers to resolve fines associated with non-payment, going into effect later this month.

“We know this will be a big change for many, so we encourage riders to start getting in the habit of tapping on and off, prior to reaching the station platform,” a blog post on the Sound Transit website reads in part. “We will also be posting new signs, and we’ll have audio messages reminding you that readers are not on the platforms anymore.”

“Fare Paid Zone” signage and markings, which are already in place at the University District, Roosevelt and Northgate stations, will be installed at the other Link light rail stations beginning as early as Monday.

Sound Transit says that additional ORCA card readers and signage “hopefully making them easier to recognize and quickly tap in/out” will also be installed at station entrances.

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