Feel that? A Better Breeze is coming to Atlanta! The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, or, MARTA, just announced that it will replace its entire fare collection system over the next six months, with a goal of spring 2026 for implementation and customer transition. MARTA is going the whole nine yards, too. In other words, MARTA transit riders can expect updated Breeze cards and tickets, faregates and validators, Breeze vending machines, and the mobile app. Keep scrolling for all the details on this huge upgrade!
Wait… wait. What’s going on?
MARTA just announced some massive updates to the current transit system, but riders don’t need to do anything just yet. Basically, MARTA plans to overhaul their whole fare system with updates that will make it easier for you to ride! Here’s what you can expect from the Better Breeze updates:
- New Equipment: New, contactless fare payment equipment for easier access. MARTA will replace faregates and fareboxes, validators, and Breeze vending machines systemwide.
- New Payment Feature: Expect open payment where you can tap your bank card, smart phone, or mobile wallet to pay for your ride.
- New App: An updated app which customers will need to download and create a new account where they can purchase fare.
- New Cards: New physical cards with a cool design (think orange!) and continued options of multi-day and monthly passes. Information on getting your new Breeze card will be shared in the spring.
MARTA Interim General Manager and CEO Jonathan Hunt says,
It’s great to keep fares unchanged for years, but not an entire fare collection system… MARTA is implementing some incredible projects and initiatives next year ahead of the World Cup, including new trains, a new bus network with on demand transit zones, a new bus rapid transit line, and a new On the Go app and MARTA website. We need to ensure our Breeze system is aligned with these once-in-a-generation improvements and ready for the future.
Is the price of fare going up?
Nope. Don’t worry about that. According to MARTA fare remains $2.50 for a one-way trip.
What do I need to do to ride MARTA right now?
Access to all rail stations will be maintained and there will be a monthlong period in spring 2026 for customers to transition from the current Breeze system to the Better Breeze system.