The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) has commenced a new GPS tracking service called the Next Vehicle Arrival System for tracking the location of buses.
The TTC website indicates that so far more than 10,100 bus stops in the GTA have been connected to this new system, and would allow passengers to know when the next bus would arrive at their bus stop. This system is an extension to the already existing operation used in subways and streetcars from 2009 onwards.
GPS Tracking Device at Busstop
According to Mike DeToma, who is a spokesperson from TTC, the entire system was designed mainly to provide their customers the ability to get the desired information, by using screens and smart phones. They could find out with great accuracy the time of arrival of their next vehicle. The same information could also be accessed online via NextBus.com, free of charge. This service created by third parties for smartphone applications could be downloaded by paying a onetime fee. Users could also message a stop number to 898882 (TXTTTC) and get the bus arrival information free of cost at present. However in the future, TTC which is consulting with the public may make changes in the month of September. DeToma also emphasized that cell phone users should check with their cell phone providers with regard to the charges applicable.
Some stations in the city such as the street shelters at Adelaide/Bathurst and the Spadina/Queen also have screens, which display the arrival information. According to Betty Foo, who frequently uses the TTC, this new system would prove to be very beneficial for her, particularly at nights, when buses are infrequent.
Owen Blake, another TTC passenger, stated that this new service would be of great use to him in keeping better time, as he usually arrives at a station just when the bus leaves the stop.