Toronto-based GO Transit's riders may now sign up to receive SMS text messages directly to their mobile device, simply by subscribing for free on the agency's website.

E-News messages, either by email or SMS text, include information on service improvements, new schedules, service status updates, station updates and other news of interest to passengers.

Email and SMS alerts are fully customizable; allowing each subscriber to select their train line, station or bus route, and the message distribution can be limited to particular times of day, such as morning or afternoon peak-periods.

Additionally, the Edmonton Transit System (ETS) began a new pilot service, enabling its riders to send a text message to 31100 and get bus schedule information sent directly to their mobile phone in seconds.

"ETS is always looking to add value and offer new creative ways to get information to our riders," says Nathan Walters, strategic marketing supervisor with ETS. "A lot of our riders are already using text messaging on a regular basis so having our bus schedules available by text is a natural fit."

Transit customers have the ability to create an online profile to customize their messaging experience. The online profile allows customers to choose 'favorite' routes, so that they can simply send a blank text and receive bus schedules specific to their routine.

The ETS text messaging service is free; however, standard data/messaging rates may apply.