Going from one city to another without using a personal car can involve several separate payment transactions, including: taxi (cash or credit in some cases), public or private train (credit or debit at a machine), subway (Metrocard), bus. It would be much easier on travelers to have one transit pass, or stored value card to scan or swipe for everything, especially for routine trips. The card would facilitate access to all mass transit options in a greater metro area - maybe even for parking meters and garages.
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A multi-transport debit card is a great idea. I could see the buses and trains linked, the taxis might be a bit tougher because there are many independent taxi companies around that can't even take credit cards. Perhaps the DOT offcials in the tri-state area could get off their butts and get this hopping (along with building the NYC Second Avenue subway line)!
When you buy a metronorth ticket, you can add a NYC subway fare. You will notice that the back of your ticket is a subway card.
In Helsinki the same prepaid card works for buses, subways, trains and streetcars. Also transfer between modes within a one hour time limit is free.