8 Friday, September 25, 2020 brooklintowncrier.com Durham Transit Offering Free PRESTO cards To encourage the transition to contactless fare payment, Durham Region Transit (DRT) will waive the $6 activation fee for those who load a minimum of $6.50 on their card at the time of purchase - the equivalent of two single ride PRESTO taps - through to the end of 2020. When: PRESTO cards will be available starting September 13, 2020. Where: Customers can pick up a free PRESTO card, with a minimum purchase of $6.50, at the following DRT points of sale: Pickering Town Centre Guest Services Durham Region Transit Customer Service Centre, 110 Westney Road South, Ajax Oshawa Centre Guest Services Why: DRT wants to make it easier to transition to contactless fare payment, ensuring the best value and ongoing safety for customers using public transit. Note: Using PRESTO for fare payment ensures the best value and lowest fare for customers, offering a $10 savings for every 14 trips. Customers traveling on DRT can also download and use the new PRES- TO E-Tickets app and save the $6 card fee. COVID-19 has highlighted the need to shift more rapidly to contactless fare collection options that reduce the risk of transmission. Using PRESTO fare payment complements DRT's existing health and safety protocols and measures; ensuring the continued safety and confidence of customers who rely on transit to get where they need to go. Visit durhamregiontransit.com to learn more.