The new and improved ORCA: What you need to know, when and where you need to know it
The new and improved ORCA system is on the way! Starting in May, we will begin rolling out new features designed to significantly improve your ORCA experience.
The upgrades and changes to the system will be introduced in phases.
What’s coming, and when
We are updating how you manage your ORCA card starting in May, so it’s time to start getting the word out.
The public information campaign for the new and improved ORCA has already begun throughout the region. You’ll see communication in a variety of ways, including the ORCA newsletter, the myORCA Blog, on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn @TheORCACard, and via the ORCA customer outreach campaign.
If you ride on Community Transit, Everett Transit, King County Metro, Kitsap Transit, Pierce Transit, Sound Transit, or Washington State Ferries, you may spot one of 2,200 advertising placements about the new and improved ORCA.
By using ad space on buses and in stations, regional transit providers can help tell the ORCA story efficiently and cost-effectively, giving customers important information about changes and improvements coming to ORCA.
The New and Improved ORCA Is Almost Here
Starting May 2022
This first, exciting step in the launch is all about improved account management tools. The new myORCA.com website and myORCA Mobile App will allow you to set up account preferences and autoloads, check your balance and trip history, load your card with funds or products in real-time and more.
To get started, download the app and create an account by connecting your existing card or purchasing a new one. You need an ORCA card to use the myORCA app. All ORCA cards and account types work with the app. You can connect your existing card or order a new card.
Remember, you can keep using the ORCA card you already have — it will continue to work with the new and improved ORCA system. Also, keep an eye out for new card readers and vending machines, which will start appearing on vehicles and at stops during this time.
Summer 2022
In the next step of the ORCA rollout, ORCA will more than double the number of retail stores where you can buy and reload ORCA cards. Rolling out at the same time will be the new ORCA card design. The new cards will include a barcode on the back so they will work with the new retail network.
In summer 2022 when the expanded retail network launches, if you want to add value to your card at a retail store, you will need to get a new card. Otherwise, you can continue to use your existing card, which will work on the website, app, vending machines, and when you tap your card to pay for trips.
Learn more information about how the retail network will improve and change at the ORCA website.
There are a lot of exciting improvements and changes coming to ORCA. And these benefits were created with everyone in mind.
Find the right fare programs for you! Reduced-fare programs are available to qualified riders with low-incomes, seniors (65+ years), youth (6–18 years) and people with disabilities. Visit communitytransit.org/orca, myorca.com, or call (425) 353-RIDE (7433) / TTY: 711 to learn more.
Stay in the Know
This is just the beginning of even more improvements and new features coming to the upgraded ORCA experience. Stay updated about the ORCA project by signing up for the ORCA newsletter and follow the conversation on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn @TheORCACard.
