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    1. Technology
    2. Passenger Info

    MDOT MTA brings real-time train arrival information to light rail 

    Aug. 31, 2022
    Real-time tracking is now available on all MDOT MTA fixed-route services.
    Related To: Maryland Transit Administration (MTA)
    MDOT MTA
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    Real-time location and predicted arrival information is now available for light-rail trains, announced the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA).  

    All MDOT MTA fixed-route services now offer up-to-the-minute information for passengers, fulfilling a commitment the agency made to riders in its strategic plan, Rebuilding Better, released last fall. The deployment of real-time information on light rail simplifies multi-modal travel by improving riders’ ability to plan connections to Local Bus, Metro Subway or MARC Train. 

    “We are thrilled to expand real-time technology to our light-rail fleet and provide riders with a better transit experience,” said MDOT MTA Administrator Holly Arnold. “Planning your light rail trip is easier than ever before with up-to-date information available whenever you need it.” 

    The real-time information is available through Transit app, a free-to-download smartphone application currently used in more than 200 metropolitan areas around the world. Light rail riders can use Transit app to view train locations, predicted arrival times and step-by-step navigation. In addition, riders using the app receive alerts on service disruptions. 

    Real-time location and predicted arrival times for MDOT MTA vehicles have steadily expanded since they were first introduced in June 2018 for Local Bus. The technology was extended to Commuter Bus in June 2019, MARC Train in August 2020 and Metro Subway in December 2021. MDOT MTA continues to explore adding real-time information around the network through displays at stops and stations as part of the agency’s pledge to provide timely, useful, clear and consistent information for riders across the system. 

    “Real-time location and arrival information helps to make MDOT MTA service even more convenient, accessible and reliable for customers,” said MDOT Secretary James F. Ports, Jr. “We’re tapping the power of technology to make our transit network more integrated and informative – and more attractive as a day-to-day option for residents and visitors.”