Broward County Transit Introduces “Real-Time” Technology
– System Displays and Announces Estimated Arrival Times at Bus Stops –

On June 5, 2008, at 9 a.m., Broward County Transit (BCT) introduces ‘real-time’ transit technology that will display and announce the estimated arrival time of the next bus. The new, information system will be located at two bus stop shelters on Hwy. 441, located directly north and south of Oakland Park Boulevard, in the City of Lauderdale Lakes.

The public is invited to join BCT, and state, county and city officials at the ‘real-time’ transit demonstration event to be held at the bus stop located at the southwest corner of Hwy. 441 and Oakland Park Boulevard, adjacent to Walgreens.

‘Real-time’ transit employs the global positioning system (GPS) equipment on-board the bus and cellular technology to update the electronic display signs. The two initial signs will be using FPL power already present at the bus stops; future display signs will use solar panel technology in shelters that are not equipped with pre-existing electrical feeds.

“This technology provides transit riders with information that they have requested and need,” said Broward County Mayor Lois Wexler. “The information is not only displayed, a talking voice also tells riders when the next bus will arrive. Its easy for people to understand.”

There are currently no American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for a ‘talking’ component of these signs; BCT felt it would be a significant enhancement for those passengers that have sight impairments and limited reading skills.

The ‘real-time’ transit system was funded through a grant from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). BCT has plans to install additional signs at major stops along the entire bus system when funds become available.

For more information, contact the Broward County Transit marketing section at 954-357-8355.