MBTA launches wireless delay updates
Message sent if train, bus or ferry runs 15 minutes late.
The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) launched a new pilot program on Monday called “T-Alerts,” which will notify commuters of service delays via email and text message updates.
The service will allow each passenger to get updates on up to three train, bus or ferry routes during the days and times that the rider typically travels. If the route is running 15 minutes late, a message will be sent to subscribers’ e-mail, cell phone or wireless device. The alerts stem from updates already posted on MBTA’s Website.
Information about the program was available on the MBTA’s Website Monday and Tuesday, and passengers could sign up for the service starting Wednesday afternoon. Only 3,000 people will be included in the pilot program.
The MBTA will ask participants for feedback and make the improved updates available to all commuters sometime around the beginning of 2008.
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