As MetroCards inch closer to being fully phased out and replaced by OMNY, that means we’re also approaching the end of an era for the transit system’s collectible MetroCards. In fact, the MTA has announced they’ll only release two more!
However, for their last two iterations they’re doing things a bit differently.
The MTA is currently offering brands the chance to create one of the final two limited-edition collectible MetroCards. The cards must be “part of a holistic campaign that promotes your brand and the cards, while also delivering a unique rider benefit/experience,” according to the MTA.
The opportunity is being offered as a way to celebrate the retirement of the MetroCard while reminding customers to embrace tap and go payments.
According to amNY, MTA spokesperson Kayla Shults stated that the MTA doesn’t currently have plans for collectible OMNY cards.
MTA Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara stated:
Creating one of the final custom MetroCards is the perfect opportunity for a brand, artist, or cultural institution to cement its place in transit history. While the MTA continues to shift to tap and go payments by using a bank card, smartphone, or wearable device, these last two cards will undoubtedly become instant collectibles.
Since the inception of the MetroCard back in 1994, 400 different collectible MetroCards have been released, celebrating various New York icons like Dolly Parton, Biggie Smalls, KISS, Law & Order: SVU, Hip Hop icons, Ice Spice, and most recently Vampire Weekend.
Details on the program can be found here.