Holo transit card is catching on during pilot program

About 2,100 Oahu public transit riders have signed up so far for the city’s new, reloadable Holo card that can be used to hop on TheBus, TheHandiVan and eventually the 20-mile, Kapolei-to-Ala Moana rail line.

The Holo card incorporates smart-chip technology that lets it be used multiple times at different locations and for different transportation modes, as long as funds are available in the user’s account. Reloads can be done via smartphone or online, and eventually at participating retailers or satellite city halls.

The pilot program is an initial step toward an integrated city transit system where passengers will be able to pay fares on TheBus, TheHandiVan or a rail train with the “tap” of a card against an onboard card validator.

The Holo card was launched at the start of the month. The city is hoping to draw more participants during the three-month trial period to test the system and suggest improvements or other feedback before a permanent version takes effect sometime later in 2019, said Whitney Birch, fare collection manager for the Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transportation.

The program is being led by HART in partnership with the city Department of Transportation Services.

HART is projecting the first phase of the rail line, from East Kapolei to Aloha Stadium, to begin operating in December 2020. The entire 20-mile line is projected to begin running in 2025.

One incentive for the Holo card, at least during the pilot phase, is that once passengers pay for two trips within the same day, they will automatically earn an all-day pass for additional rides that day. The city will decide later whether to continue the deal under the permanent program, Birch said.

Moving to smart-chip cards makes it easier for riders to reload their accounts and more difficult for stolen cards to be used, provided users register the cards at the Holo website, holocard.net. Obtaining a Holo card is free during the initial rollout; otherwise it’s $2 for a new or replacement card. The minimum amount to load or reload is $2.75.

The cards offer an “auto- load” option from a bank account if the balance dips below a threshold amount of the user’s choosing. Additionally, multiple cards for family members can be issued under a single account.

Adults ages 18 to 64 may go to the Holo website to purchase and register their cards, which will be mailed to them. Youths and seniors, who may qualify for a discounted rate, must go to the Kalihi Transit Center Pass Office at 601 Middle St. to purchase and register a card; a photo ID is required.

Current adult fares on TheBus are $2.75 for a one-way ride, $5.50 for a one-day pass and $70 for an unlimited monthly pass. The city intends to phase out paper day and monthly passes likely sometime during 2019, Birch said. TheBus passengers still will be able to pay cash.