Here is how the new MCTS fare system works — called WisGo

The Milwaukee County Transit System will institute a new system, called WisGo, on Saturday.

WisGo cards will go into effect, with M-Card and Go Pass being discontinued in September.

In February, the county announced that it is instituting fare capping, joining a growing number of municipalities around the world, by providing a system it considers more equitable and efficient. Fare capping will ultimately result in many riders paying less.

Here is what you need to know about the WisGo system.

What forms of payment can I use?

Riders can currently use the Umo app, WisGo card, or cash. MCTS has made an effort to convert cash riders to app or card users, because riders who use cash will not benefit from fare capping. M-Cards will work until Sept. 30.

By the end of 2023, riders will be able to tap a debit or credit card as well. Debit and credit card users will also benefit from fare capping. Due to fare capping, daily, weekly or monthly passes will no longer exist.

What do I do when I get on the bus?

Once riders enter the bus, a validator will be near the entrance. Validators have already been installed on buses but haven't been in use until Saturday.

App users should open the app and scan their phone on the validator. Card users should place their WisGo card on the validator. If the funds are accepted, a light on the top of the validator will turn green.

The validator will automatically handle whether it is a new ride or a transfer and deduct the appropriate amount. App and WisGo card users can transfer up to eight times within 90 minutes before being charged again.

What if I prefer cash?

Cash users will need to pay for a new ride every time, no more paper transfers. Cash users will also not benefit from fare capping as there is no way to track the purchase.

MCTS highly recommends riders switch to using the app or purchase a WisGo card, but said cash will always be an option.

WisGo cards will be available at local participating stores, including Walgreens, Pick 'n Save and Speedway. Once riders are required to purchase a card, cash can be used to make the purchase.

How does the app work?

Riders should download the app by entering "Umo Mobility" in either the app store or Google Play store.

The app has a number of features, including the ability to enter where a rider is going and the app will provide directions on what routes to use. The app will also provide real-time GPS locations of buses.

If the rider already knows where they are going, all they need to do is simply enter the "Wallet" tab and select "Show code" and scan it on the bus' validator.

To put funds in your account, select the "Wallet" tab again and select "Add Cash." iPhone users can add funds using Apple Pay. First-time users will need to create an account.

The "Wallet" tab will also provide a history of rides. The app allows users to connect to Uber or Lyft as well.

There are 45 languages available in the app. The app also mirrors the accessibility settings on cellphones, for those with disabilities.

How much does riding cost?

• A single ride on a MCTS bus costs $2.
• WisGo reduced fare cards for $1 are available for riders 65 and older, aged 6 to 11, or riders with a qualifying disability. If you are eligible for a reduced fare, call 414-937-3218 or email customerservice@mcts.org.
• Children 5 and younger ride for free.

Because MCTS instituted fare capping earlier this year, the most a rider will be required to pay in a day is $4, $19.50 for the week, and $72 for the month, after that riders will travel for free. Fare-reduced caps also exist for those with a reduced fare card.

WisGo cards are free until June 30. After that, a first card will cost $2. Regular fare replacement cards will cost $3, and a reduced fare replacement card will cost $5.

Waukesha Transit System also part of WisGo

Many riders travel outside of the county to go to work, school or social events. It is the goal of Umo Mobility to get more transit communities to agree to use the WisGo system.

Waukesha Metro Transit agreed to be part of WisGo, Mayor Shawn Reilly said at Wednesday's news conference.

"Employers continually express to me the need for uncomplicated ways for their employees to get to work," Reilly said. Milwaukee County and MCTS covered the cost of equipping Waukesha buses with validators, Reilly said.

Riders can begin to use the Umo app on Waukesha buses but the WisGo system is not yet fully functional for the county, Reilly said. App users will benefit from using one app for both counties and eventually card users will receive the same benefits.

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Contact Drake Bentley at (414) 391-5647 or DBentley1@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @DrakeBentleyMJS.