Ljubljana introduces “Urbana” City Card
Ljubljana is introducing an electronic payment system, the so called “Urbana” city card for public services. If the trial period starting on 15 April 2009 proves successful, local residents and tourists will start to use the new card for public transport and parking already as early as September 2009.In the first phase people will be able to use their “Urbana” card to pay for travel on public transport in the city, parking, the trip by funicular to Ljubljana castle, and for municipal library services. In the next phase the city card will also include admission to museums, sport facilities, and cultural events.
The first big advantage for passengers will be connected to public charges. With the new city card the modern electronic payment system will be introduced and with it the possibility of variable access to specific zones. The second big advantage will be the fact that the passengers will be able to travel on urban bus routes for 90 minutes for a one-time payment of 0.80 euros - without any additional payment when they change lines. During the three to four month trial period starting in April, the “Urbania” city card will be tested by 1,500 passengers: employees of the municipality, Ljubljana Transport Authority, Ljubljana Holding and 500 pupils. There will be two different city cards: a green card displaying the name of the holder, that will replace the previous monthly season ticket for public transport, and a green prepaid ticket that can be used for cashless transactions and will be transferable. The city card will be available from 40 “urbanomats” and 60 ticket offices in the city. It will be also possible to pay for all these services using the mobile phone.
