Media outlets have been buzzing over the first bitcoin (BTC) ATM to be installed in the United States. Many have rejoiced at the prospect of these machines being established all over the country and become easily accessible much like conventional ATMs are. However, not every entity is getting on board the bitcoin train.
After a bitcoin ATM made its way to Boston’s South Station trail hub this week, there was some minor speculation that perhaps the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) would start accepting bitcoin as a method of payment. Not so.
According to a report from the Boston Globe, Joe Pesaturo, a spokesperson for the MBTA, said the organization currently has no plans to accept bitcoins for train, bus or commuter rail passes. He confirmed that it only permits United States dollars and credit and debit cards to get onto the MBTA.
“The MBTA’s fare vending machines accept widely-used U.S. currency, debit and credit cards,” Pesaturo said.
Will any American transit agency start allowing riders to pay with the digital currency? Well, it is in the realm of possibility after it was reported that the Canberra, Australia bus system is in the beginning stages of allowing its customers to purchase prepaid passes with bitcoins.
Also, PointsHound, a website that rewards travel reservations with frequent-flier miles and hotel points, has started using the cryptocurrency in its payout system. This initiative has been implemented with the hopes of improving business.
This could be the start of a beautiful friendship between bitcoins and transit and travel.
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