By Philip Newman
The MTA, joining the excitement leading up to the Super Bowl XLVIII, has come out with special MetroCards decorated with commemorative designs promoting the ultimate football game.
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority, together with the New York-New Jersey Super Bowl Host Committee, will sell them until Feb. 3, the day following the sports classic.
Buying a MetroCard during this period falls short of guaranteeing the buyer will get one of the special Super Bowl cards on the first try. The commemorative cards were loaded into dispensing machines and booth facilities among the already existing supply of MetroCards.
“There’s no better region to host the Super Bowl and no better way to celebrate and promote that fact than by saying it on a MetroCard,” said Paul Fleuranges, senior director of corporate communications at the MTA. “The front of our MetroCards has really become a game changer as a new, innovative medium to advertise.”
The big game will be played at MetLife Stadium in Secaucus, N.J., Feb. 2.
The series of souvenir MetroCards features four cards each emblazoned with different logos and all carrying the same message on the back saying, “Together the National Football League and the New York/New Jersey Super Bowl Host Committee are bringing the greatest game to the greatest region.”
Distribution of the commemorative cards began Jan. 6 when the series was loaded into MetroCard vending machines and subway station booths. A total of 1 million cards were printed.
The MTA said that those who want the commemorative cards should take note that patrons are not guaranteed they will get a special Super Bowl card by purchasing a MetroCard or one of a specific design.
Reach contributing writer Philip Newman by e-mail at timesledgernews@cnglocal.com or phone at 718-260-4536.
