MTA unveils all-in-one transit app for seamless urban travel

Credit: Metropolitan Transportation Authority

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has unveiled its highly-anticipated MTA app, poised to transform the way New Yorkers navigate the city’s public transit system. Currently in Beta testing, this app is set to succeed the existing MYmta app, offering streamlined and enhanced commuting.

The new MTA app serves as a comprehensive hub for transit information, providing schedules, service alerts and more across subways, buses, Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and Metro-North Railroad via a user-friendly smartphone interface.

 “If we want more customers to use public transit, providing travel tools that are easy and intuitive is key,” said MTA Acting Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara. “The new MTA app accomplishes just that, connecting riders to the information they need in one or two taps.”

Key features in the Beta version encompass:

• Effortless trip planning across various transit modes
• Real-time updates, optimising navigation through the city
• Personalised favourites allowing users to save preferred routes and stops 
• Live bus tracking
• On-board crowding alerts on rail travel 
• Access-A-Ride convenience
• Improved search functionality aids in identifying MTA stations and available services
• Dynamic maps and station views.

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Developed in partnership with Axon Vibe, the app harnesses cutting-edge transit technology. Users can opt to share location data for personalised real-time notifications during their journeys.

The app’s aggregated data will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of ridership and mobility patterns in the New York metropolitan area. This information will aid MTA in refining transit operations, simplifying travel planning and advancing sustainability efforts, supported by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

Anticipated to launch in late 2023 on the Apple Store and Google Play Store, the new MTA app is poised to replace MYmta. Notably, current MYmta users will experience a seamless transition through automatic updates.