03 Action
Why this is important
Transit riders should have clear, accurate information about when and where their bus or train will arrive. Recent advances in technology have improved real-time information, however, the way our transit system communicates is not as accessible and understanding as it should be. The RTA and Service Boards are listening to public feedback and working to make improvements.
Updates
On time performance for Metra, Q4 2023
On time performance for CTA, Q4 2022
Input from stakeholder working groups
Stakeholder working groups crafted specific strategies to make immediate improvements. These include implementing on-board Metra communications displays, improving station and platform signage and audio messaging, and completing a comprehensive review of the quality and accessibility of existing displays and audio announcement systems.
What we as a region could do with more resources
With more resources, the agencies could update their central operating software and hardware on vehicles more frequently, which would make location reporting more robust and accurate. Additional digital signage could also be installed and improvements to the Ventra app could be made. Additional technical staffing at all agencies would also help advance projects more quickly.
Implementation Activities
Shared Activities
The agencies worked together to commission an independent review of the accessibility and usability of rider communication, signage, and information-sharing across and between agencies. The RTA released the Transit Information Action Plan in summer 2025.
RTA
Led review described in Shared Activities.
Continue to advance better rider information with more interagency signage and will work with Service Boards to pursue improvements to in-vehicle and at-station transfer announcements and real-time messaging.
CTA
Upgrade bus tracker interface and on-board displays on buses.
Pilot a ChatBot feature to provide riders with more information or ability to report issues to the CTA.
Enhance tracking information on Ventra app.
Metra
Rollout new train tracking system and in-station displays of real-time train tracking.
Pace
Implement Transit app Mobility as a Service (MaaS).
Improve Pulse Dempster station information systems.
Implement displays for real-time information.