Valley Metro adds real-time bus, train arrival info signs

[IMAGE]NextRide-02-2.jpg[/IMAGE]New signs, which feature NextRide — a way to instantly get next bus and train arrival times — are being installed at each of Phoenix-based Valley Metro's 7,465 bus stops and light rail stations through January 2012.

Using GPS technology, NextRide is simple to use for anyone at a stop having a cell phone or internet access. By texting or calling, the passenger will enter the unique stop identification(ID) number and receive the next arrival times for the light rail train, bus route or routes served by that station or stop.

A Web page is also dedicated to this passenger feature, which will provide stop locator information.

The Valley Metro Customer Service call center receives more than 8,000 calls per day and 55 percent of those are next bus or train arrival-time questions. The funding for this service enhancement was provided by a federal Job Access Reverse Commute (JARC) grant and regional public transportation funds from the countywide half-cent sales tax approved by voters in 2004.

Installation should be complete by January 2012, however, passengers can begin using the system now by going to the website and using the stop ID locator on the NextRide page or on the Valley Metro trip planner page, according to the agency.