Calgary Transit is getting Googled in an effort to boost efficient navigation of public transportation via the Internet.
Transit in Google Maps is a feature that will not only provide more detail in planning trips by sending riders bus routes, transfers, schedules and walking directions, but it will help make trip planning more efficient for users, Theresa Keddy of Calgary Transit said.
“Our system was good before but this is more visual and provides an alternative option for transit riders to use,” she said. “Also, I think the name recognition alone might attract more users, too.”
Users can just type in their origin and their destination to receive detailed trip plans, which includes a map.
“And tourists can use it easily to plan their trip in Calgary before they even come here,” Keddy added.
Google Transit product specialist Naomi Bilodeau said the system provides users additional information and the same service is already used in other Canadian cities including Vancouver, Montreal and Hamilton. Edmonton is also unveiling the system this week.
The new service is a welcome addition for some transit users such as Christine Bergeron, 25, who is new to Calgary, but used the same service in her hometown.
“I loved the system in Ottawa — it was fantastic. I found it quick, efficient and easy to get from point A to B,” Bergeron said. “I was disappointed with Calgary’s system when I first came here. I actually found it useless, so I just stopped using it altogether.”
But Bergeron is excited to use the service she was familiar with at home, especially because she currently plans her own trips and routes in Calgary.
“I think this will have a positive effect on transit users and especially newcomers to the city,” she said. “And it will help get me around easier, too.”
To access the Transit in Google Maps trip planner, visit www.calgarytransit.com
