Edwards Coaches’ Operations Manager James Cross, left, discusses the new real-time tracking technology with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall.
Wednesday, 16 September 2020.
PUBLIC transport customers in Armidale soon won’t have to worry about missing their bus, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing the roll out of real-time tracking technology, on coaches, from three local companies.
Mr Marshall said the innovative service would be available on more than 30 local buses and routes, operated by Edwards Coaches, Jeffery Buses and WJ & GL Lowery.
“Armidale is recognised as a regional leader when it comes to trialing and adopting the latest public transport options,” Mr Marshall said.
“This technology will be installed on coaches across the city’s public transport network, making it easier for customers to get around by allowing them to track the location of their service, its estimated time of arrival and how many seats are available.
“Imagine how beneficial this will be for older passengers, who will be able to time their arrival at the bus stop exactly with the preferred service, meaning no waiting on a frosty winter’s morning.
“Parents can even use it to track the progress of their children’s school services so they know exactly when to pick them up.
“Tracking will be available through the trip planner tool at transportnsw.info and on third party public transport apps.”
Mr Marshall said the system would also help with planning where service improvements needed to be made.
“This technology provides both government and bus companies with comprehensive, real-time information on what services are best utilised, at what time of day and where passengers are most likely to disembark,” he said.
“The State Government wants to make public transport the first option for commuters and will put this data to use identifying what routes should be extended, re-routed or where maybe even added.”
Transport for NSW has partnered with CONSAT Telematics, a global leader in public transport telematics solutions, to deliver the vehicle tracking and passenger counting technology.
CONSAT will work with operators who deliver route and school services on behalf of the government.