Explore Live NextBus Implementation
We now have more than 50 North American transit systems using real-time reporting on 100s of routes. Please begin with a virtual visit to the new NextBus installation at MIT in Cambridge, MA--and from there to all of our live installations. Click here to begin your exploration.
Sep
14
Unitrans Rolls Out Real-time Information System from NextBus
Filed Under Best Practices, Feature Stories, Municipal Transit, Real-time Passenger Information Systems, University Transit
Goal to Make One of Most Efficient Systems in the U.S. Even More Efficient.
Real-time Data Available in Multiple Formats for Passengers
The real-time data is available to passengers in several formats. Stop predictions and real-time location maps are available on the web – linked from www.unitrans.com or directly at www.nextbus.com. The real-time information is also available in an automated phone system, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.
This system can be accessed through the standard Unitrans telephone information number 752-BUSS or dialed directly at 530-204-5529. To use the phone system, riders only need to know the 3-digit stop number for the stop they are using. This stop number is now included next to the Unitrans logo on all bus stop signs and is also available through the NextBus web site.
NextBus also offers rider alerts, to provide riders an automated message when their bus is a selected number of minutes away. The web site provides instructions on how to use this feature for SMS text messaging, PDAs, iPhones, or standard email. Additional features will be added in the future, such as displays at major terminals and stops.
Unitrans Operations Improved with Real-time Passenger Data
More detailed real time information is provided to Unitrans dispatchers to assist in handling disruptions in the schedule and to assess where problems are with buses being overcrowded or running late. The system also provides archived data that Unitrans can use to evaluate existing services and proposed changes.
The ultimate goal of the real-time system is to make Unitrans easier to use for both regular and occasional riders and to make the one of the nation’s most efficient transit systems even more productive.
History of the Unitrans System
Unitrans was founded in 1968 as the University Transport System, when the Associated Students of UC Davis purchased two vintage London double-decker buses to operate on two routes.
In 1972, Unitrans was opened to the general public, with partial funding from the City of Davis. Since that time the ASUCD/City of Davis partnership has continued, and now Unitrans provides public transportation service to the entire city with 50 buses on 14 routes, carrying over 3 million passengers a year.
All Unitrans drivers and supervisors, as well as most support staff, are UC Davis students working part-time. Their drivers undergo extensive training and testing prior to going into service. Unitrans safety record is among the best among public transit systems in the U.S. All of their employees pride themselves on providing safe and friendly service.
Summing Up:
Both riders and transit executives will benefit from NextBus real-time passenger information. Riders can plan their travel efficiently because they can count on accurate arrival times. Unitrans executives can optimize their operations to be both cost efficient and environmentally friendly by getting maximum use from minimum resources.
Comments
Leave a Reply