Ventra App Crash Disrupts Metra Commute on Day of New Fare Launch

Commuters faced delays and confusion as the app failed amid fare structure changes and ticket window closures.

Metra's Ventra app crashed on the first day of new fare structures and the closure of ticket windows, causing inconvenience for commuters.
Commuters were allowed to board trains by showing their frozen app screens to Metra employees.
The app crash occurred as Metra introduced a simplified fare structure, including fewer fare zones and the replacement of the 10-ride ticket with a five-pack of day passes.
Metra is working with Cubic, the company that runs the app, to resolve the issue and has promised to reimburse any erroneous charges.
The changes, including the app-only day pass and the closure of ticket windows, aim to attract new riders and simplify pricing.