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MTA Accelerates Rollout Of Metro-North, LIRR Mobile Ticketing App

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- The MTA is accelerating the rollout of its mobile ticketing app -- eTix -- at the request of Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The free Metropolitan Transportation Authority app allows Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad customers to buy their tickets anytime, anywhere using their mobile devices, CBS2's Ali Bauman reported.

"This new app puts riders first by eliminating the ticket line and helping New Yorkers and visitors get where they need to go with more freedom and convenience than ever before," Cuomo said.

Commuters are on board with the plan.

"I think it's a great idea," commuter Jim Anderson said. "It's simple, more efficient, cost effective and less cost for the taxpayers I think in the long run."

The app is already available for the LIRR's Port Washington Branch and Metro-North's Hudson Line.

MTA Chairman and CEO Thomas Prendergast announced Tuesday the app will be available for customers on all railroad lines before the end of August.

"Make sure we bring enhancements in the form of technology to customers to have those same technology features available in other parts of your life," he said.

Initially the full rollout had been scheduled to be completed this December.

The MTA is encouraging app users to buy tickets as far in advance as possible and then hit activate for a specific train once they're there.

To download the app, click here.

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