METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Port Authority launches real-time arrival info for light rail

Implementation of the TrueTime system began on buses in 2013. The entire fleet of more than 700 buses was online by early 2015.

November 1, 2017
Port Authority launches real-time arrival info for light rail

Port Authority's new TrueTime system can track light rail vehicles in real time. Photo: Port Authority

2 min to read


Port Authority's new TrueTime system can track light rail vehicles in real time. Photo: Port Authority

Beginning today, Port Authority riders — from Allegheny Station to South Hills Village — can track their light rail vehicles in real time.

This latest effort to make riding public transit more convenient, predictable and accessible marks the final phase of the TrueTime system implementation. The service is available immediately at TrueTime.PortAuthority.org; third-party mobile application developers are expected to integrate the new feature very soon.

Implementation of the TrueTime system began on buses in 2013. The entire fleet of more than 700 buses was online by early 2015.

Port Authority’s goal with TrueTime has been to take the guesswork out of riding. When riders are still at their desks, at home, or in a coffee shop, they can locate their nearest transit options and know how many minutes they have until the next bus or rail car arrives.

“This has been one of the most anticipated items from rail riders for several years,” said Port Authority Interim CEO David Donahoe. “Realtime information reduces the time riders spend waiting for public transit and allows them to make better, more informed decisions about their transit experience.”

Since the last bus was put online, the Authority installed location tracking devices in more than 80 rail vehicles and implemented a system to overcome the limitations of the system while the vehicles are underground.

Today, Port Authority’s TrueTime servers process nearly 4 million requests from internal users and third-party applications every weekday.

Developers can request access to Port Authority’s real-time API under the Company Info & Projects tab at PortAuthority.org.


More Rail

Railby StaffFebruary 2, 2026

Chicago Region Transit Ridership Grows in 2025

The region’s fixed-route system finished out the year with a total of 373.5 million rides. Adding 12.3 million rides over 2024 represents an increase that is equal to the annual transit ridership of Kansas City.

Read More →
Managementby StaffJanuary 29, 2026

Valley Metro Sees Strong Ridership Growth in 2025

The agency ranked top five among mid-sized U.S. transit systems, defined as agencies with 15 million to 50 million annual trips.

Read More →
Busby StaffJanuary 29, 2026

Subway Customer Satisfaction Reaches Record High, New York MTA Says

The subway system saw increases across all key metrics, with 62% of subway riders reporting they feel satisfied with the system overall.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Managementby StaffJanuary 27, 2026

Keolis Retains Virginia Railway Express Contract

The new contract for Keolis and VRE will commence in July 2026, with the potential to expand to 15 years.

Read More →
Busby StaffJanuary 27, 2026

California's OCTA Advances 2026 Initiatives Centered on Balance and Sustainability

The priorities are outlined in the 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives and Action Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide the agency’s work throughout the year and ensure continued progress and accountability on voter-approved transportation investments and essential mobility services.

Read More →
Railby Staff and News ReportsJanuary 26, 2026

People Movement: Virginia's DRPT Names New Director and More

In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at HDR, MCTS, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
ManagementJanuary 23, 2026

Seattle Sound Transit Sets Launch Date for Crosslake Connection

This final component of the 2 Line will cross Lake Washington and connect with the 1 Line at International District/Chinatown Station, creating a fully integrated regional light rail system.

Read More →
A blue and white graphic with a map of the proposed study area for the Sepulveda Transit Corridor and text reading "LA Metro Approves Underground Rail for Sepulveda Transit Corridor."
RailJanuary 23, 2026

LA Metro Approves Underground Rail for Sepulveda Transit Corridor

The agency’s selection aims to slash travel times from the San Fernando Valley to the Westside to under 20 minutes.

Read More →
TechnologyJanuary 21, 2026

Florida's Tri-Rail Taps Siemens Mobility for Modern Locomotive Procurement

Expected to enter service in 2029, these locomotives support the agency’s commitment to offer reliable and efficient rail transportation across South Florida.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Rendering of an Austin Light Rail station.
RailJanuary 20, 2026

Austin Transit Partnership Advances Federal Funding Process for Light Rail Project

See how the agency’s transit project completed a Final Environmental Impact Statement within the federal two-year guideline.

Read More →