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Transportation

Valley Metro releases new app with real-time tracking

Digital link provides up-to-date information

Posted 7/12/21

Ever wonder when your bus is arriving?

Or, when the next train will pull into the station? Ponder no more. Valley Metro officials report as through partnership with the city of Phoenix and Vix …

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Transportation

Valley Metro releases new app with real-time tracking

Digital link provides up-to-date information

Posted
This digital tool is a game-changer for our riders. It basically takes all of the guesswork out of planning a transit trip,
– --- Scott Smith

Ever wonder when your bus is arriving? Or when the next train will pull into the station?

Ponder no more. Valley Metro officials report in partnership with the city of Phoenix and Vix Technology the launch of the new Valley Metro: Plan & Track app that features real-time bus and light rail tracking and trip planning.

“More than 90% of our riders own a smartphone and with this major upgrade in technology, our vital transit system becomes more accessible and easier to use. This new tool is particularly critical as our riders and our communities return stronger than ever from the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, who also serves as vice chair of the Valley Metro RPTA Board of Directors, in a press release.

The app's planning and tracking features were accelerated after a 2020 rider survey indicated nearly 70% of respondents stated it is very important to keep riders informed of service updates, the release states.

“This digital tool is a game-changer for our riders. It basically takes all of the guesswork out of planning a transit trip,” said Scott Smith, Valley Metro CEO. “We know this is a big deal for current riders and we believe it will attract new riders to our ever-growing system.”

In addition to real-time tracking, the app will introduce mobile fare payment in 2022. Riders will be able to create an account and pay for transit fares directly from their phone.

The city of Phoenix has contracted with Vix Technology to modernize Valley Metro’s regional fare system, giving riders greater tools and flexibility to access the transit system. This app is the first enhancement as part of a multiyear program that will also include mobile ticketing, reloadable smart cards and new, more modern fare collection equipment.

This app is free and available on iOS and Google Play.