How much longer til the next Metra train?
Now you know thanks to a new train-tracker feature unveiled Friday.
Similar to the CTA's tracking system for buses and trains, Metra's new "Rail-Time Tracker," provides riders with up-to-the-minute train schedule information through Metra's website and select mobile devices. Agency officials said it complements e-alerts already in place.
"Metra will still send e-alerts whenever a train is more than 15 minutes late on weekdays and 30 minutes on weekends," Metra said in a statement. "But the train tracker will let riders know when a train is going to be even a minute late."
Riders can find the feature in the lower left-hand corner on Metra's website. If a rider has favorite routes saved within “My Metra,” the space will automatically display information for the station or stations they choose.
The mobile site is accessible on iPhones, iPads and Android phones.
"The feature should be particularly useful for riders who are already at the station and are curious about when the next train is expected to depart," Metra said.
Each Metra Train already has a built-in GPS tracking system to warn riders of significant delays, but the new "Rail-Time Tracker" makes the real-time data available to riders.
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The digital upgrade and implementation cost about $80,000 and was funded by a grant from the Regional Transportation Authority.
