UTA to start scanner system

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Plastic may be the new ticket for passengers on commuter trains and buses.

The Utah Transit Authority will be installing onboard scanners that allow riders to use a debit pass or personal credit card with an embedded chip to get on and off trains and buses. Computers will automatically debit the account and keep track of how far people ride.

UTA says the system will give the agency a better count of passengers and show which areas are getting the most traffic.

UTA doesn't plan on using the new scanner system until late this year.