Presto system delayed due to tech problems

OC Transpo’s Presto payment system – originally set for launch on Canada Day – will be delayed due to technical difficulties, transit commission head Diane Deans announced today.

Once the bugs are fixed, the new system will allow riders to touch a Presto Card to an on-board screen to pay for their commute. The cards are meant to replace passes and eventually bus tickets.

The main problem facing the program, said Deans, is the machines that read the cards are not working properly.

Thousands of free cards were to be released on June 10 and ready for use on July 1.

Further details are expected in the next 10 days.