I just got this lovely email:


Dear MARC “Ticket-By-Mail” Customer:

Effective November 1, 2008, MARC will discontinue the CSX “Ticket-by-Mail” program. CONSEQUENTLY, THE NOVEMBER MONTHLY TICKETS PURCHASED IN OCTOBER WILL BE THE LAST SOLD THROUGH THIS PROGRAM.

Fortunately, other programs are now available that allow for MARC monthly ticket purchases and that also offer more flexible payment options, including the acceptance of credit cards and Electronic Smart Benefits as payment.

Please consider these following program options:

1.CommuterDirect.com - Commuter Direct offers one-time MARC ticket purchases as well as renewable orders. Commuter Direct sells all ticket types including Monthly passes, Transit Link Card (TLC), one-way, and Ten-trip tickets. Credit Card, Commuter Choice Vouchers, Metrocheks and Electronic Smart Benefits are accepted at Commuter Direct. BWI riders who have a free parking account through the current CSX Ticket-By-Mail program may set up this benefit through Commuter Direct. Registration is now open and is very easy to do on-line at www.commuterdirect.com , or by calling 703-228-RIDE.

2.Ticket Vending Machines (TVM’s) - These machines are operational at select stations. Additional machines will be installed over the next several months. Only credit and debit cards can be used to purchase fare media from the TVM’s, and they will not accept Metrochek benefits.

3.Staffed Ticket Offices - Several MARC stations and Amtrak locations will continue to sell monthly tickets. MARC stations will accept Metrocheks, Commuter Choice Vouchers, cash, and Visa or Master Card. Amtrak locations accept all major credit cards. Go to the MTA web site at www.mtamaryland.com for hours and locations of staffed stations.

MARC highly recommends that current CSX Ticket-By-Mail riders change their purchase method before the November deadline to insure a seamless transition to another program.

Sincerely,
John Hovatter
Director
MARC Train and Commuter Bus Services


Not sure if I am happy about this or not. on the plus side they accept payment using SmartBenefits, but the company I currently work for doesn't offer that.
Minus side - I hate wating in lines so I am not looking forward to buying these tickets at any station.

The last option CommuterDirect sounds good in theory, but I had bad luck with them when I purchased my first MARC ticket over 2.5 years ago (they sent me the wrong month, and it was a huge hassle to get a ticket for the correct month.).