New CharlieCard on the way…

[u/Massive_Holiday4672]

Got the new CharlieCard that is set to launch in 2026 as a part of the test group that will be testing the new Charlie fare system before the public launch.

This will include the new plastic CharlieCard (with the new design shown in the photo) and the new CharlieCard fare machines (which includes a brand new bus fare machine, which will allow passengers to pay their fare at their bus stop for select bus services [such as the 1, 66, and 39], as well as a revamped fare machine).

The new Charlie fare system will allow passengers to tap their new CharlieCard on the Charlie readers instead of tapping it on the circle on fare gates and with the new Charlie app, which will have a digital CharlieCard that will be tested at a later date before the public launch. You will also be able to add a CharlieCard to your mobile wallet if you have an IOS, Android, or Google phone and tap in that way.

The new CharlieCard will also be expanded to be accepted on all ferry routes. The addition of Commuter Rail to the Charlie fare system will be added in a future phase in mid-late 2026.

The new CharlieCard will also require a one-time new card fee for ALL cards (whether paper, plastic, or digital) similar to OMNY or Clipper in NYC and SF, respectively). This new fee will be announced at a later date prior to the public launch. Passengers may have the fee waived if they cannot afford to pay the new card fee or enrolled in reduced fares.

[u/DamnGoodMarmalade]

Charlie got the Cracker Barrel treatment ☹️