TfNSW expands real-time tracking on 1,800 more regional buses

Transport for New South Wales (TfNSW) has unveiled plans to equip approximately 1,800 additional buses in regional New South Wales (NSW) with cutting-edge smart technology. This initiative will empower bus users across the state to access real-time trip information effortlessly, making their journeys more convenient and efficient.

The deployment of Phase 3 of the Transport Connected Bus programme is now underway, aiming to outfit buses in eight key regions across NSW with GPS tracking devices and automatic passenger technology. This expansion follows the successful implementation of Phases 1 and 2, which had seen 283 and 921 vehicles equipped with these advanced systems, respectively.

Under Phase 3, the Hunter and Lower North Coast and North Coast regions will be the first to receive the technological upgrade, benefiting from the installation of the tracking and passenger information devices on 630 buses. The roll-out will continue across various other regions, including New England North West, Central West and Orana, Far West, Riverina Murray, Southern Tablelands, Ulladulla, South East and Tablelands. Specific dates and town names for the installations will be communicated closer to the time.

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With the addition of these smart technologies, passengers will gain easy access to real-time data about their bus journeys via various apps, such as TfNSW’s Trip Planner. Commuters can track their bus’s current location, estimated arrival time and seating availability at their fingertips. This technology has already been successfully implemented in Sydney and 16 regional towns and cities, and its expansion will further improve the travel experience for regional commuters.

Transport Connected Buses have already been operational in several areas, including Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo, Bega, Queanbeyan, Greater Nowra, Wagga Wagga, Albury, Griffith, Parkes, Forbes, Tamworth, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Armidale, Grafton and Tweed Heads. Since July 2020, over 1.5 million trips have been tracked across the state, providing valuable data for both passengers and bus operators.

This data collected through the programme not only benefits commuters by enhancing their travel experience but also assists bus operators in optimising services and punctuality. In addition, it plays a crucial role in TfNSW’s strategic planning for future service improvements, ensuring a more efficient and reliable public transportation network for the people of New South Wales.