ORCA’s new Tap to Pay is here. Host Monica Spain talks with Chris McKnight, Director of Regional ORCA Operations, about how riders can pay with a contactless credit/debit card or mobile wallet, no physical ORCA card required.

You’ll learn how day pass fare capping works (and why using the same payment method all day matters), what to expect on your bank statement, and how encryption and tokenization protect your info. Chris also shares what it took for multiple transit agencies to launch together across the Puget Sound region, plus what could come next.

In this episode of That Transit Show, host Monica Spain sits down with Carla Rankin, Executive Director and CEO of the Arlington Community Food Bank and Vice President of the Snohomish County Food Coalition. Together, they explore the critical intersection of public transportation and community health.

Carla provides an inside look at the current state of food insecurity in Snohomish County, discussing the impact of SNAP benefit changes, the rise of "food deserts" due to grocery store closures, and how Community Transit is helping neighbors reach the nutrition they need.

On this episode:

• Why food banks are seeing record demand following the end of emergency SNAP benefits.
• How a lack of transit can prevent families from accessing fresh, healthy food.
• Where food banks actually get their supply and how staff are pivoting to meet new challenges.
• Practical ways you can volunteer or support your local food bank today.

Resources & Links:

• Find a food bank near you: Snohomish County Food Bank Coalition
• Plan your trip to the food bank: Community Transit Trip Planner
• Learn more about Arlington Community Food Bank: Arlingtonfoodbank.org

Watch the video version of That Transit Show on YouTube.

In this episode of That Transit Show, host Monica Spain sits down with Travel Trainer Asch Qattawi to pull back the curtain on Community Transit’s free, one-on-one Travel Training program. Discover how personalized coaching can turn a new commute into a confident journey.

On this episode:

• What is Travel Training?
• How one-on-one sessions work to meet the goals of the rider.
• Pro tips for planning trips, reading complex schedules, and mastering transfers.
• How the program supports youth, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Travel Training is flexible, supportive, and completely free. If you’ve ever felt hesitant about boarding a bus or train, this episode is your first step toward riding with confidence.

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about Travel Training: Communitytransit.org

Watch the video version of That Transit Show on YouTube.