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MTA launches real-time seating capacity information on New Haven Line

Posted: 8 June 2021 | | No comments yet

The real-time information lets passengers choose the carriages with the most open seats via an app, or digital displays at platforms.

Metro-North

MTA Metro-North Railroad have launched real-time carriage seating capacity information for passengers travelling on the New Haven Line.

Passengers can now see the amount of space available on each carriage of a train before it arrives by using the Metro-North Train Time app. Digital signs on platforms will also display the real-time information five minutes before a train approaches.

The capacity tracking feature, by car fleet, is designed to help travellers choose the carriages with the most available seats before boarding. Not only will it avoid congestion on carriages when boarding, but travellers will be able to plan their travel more easily, reassured they can social distance as many return to travel following the pandemic.

The launch on the New Haven Line follows the introduction of the same technology on the Harlem and Hudson Lines in November 2020, with the new M7 railcars. Work is planned to extend the capacity tracking technology further to the diesel sections of the lines and to older M3 electric rail cars.

“I am excited that many more Metro-North customers are now able to use this technology,” said Metro-North Railroad President Catherine Rinaldi. “As riders continue to return to Metro-North, this makes it even easier to plan your ride. I want to thank all of the hardworking MTA employees for their work on this transformative project.”

Customers who already have the app installed will receive an automatic update with the new feature.

Since its inception in 2013, the free mobile app, which is available from Google Play and the AppStore, has provided real-time status and schedule information to customers via their smartphones, along with destination, track assignment and real-time position of the next 12 trains at a given station. Features also include service alerts, fare information, ADA accessibility, parking availability and connecting services. The app is also translated into six languages — English, Spanish, Chinese, Yiddish, Portuguese and Italian.