News

Multimodal transit digital signage takes off in DC

May 30, 2013

Mobility and transit Web application and digital signage solution developer Transit Screen today officially announced the launch of Washington, D.C.'s "first real-time multimodal digital signage display of transportation information." The Transit Screen digital signage display is a live, real-time snapshot of all Metro, Capital BikeShare, Metrobus, Circulator and ART bus transit arrivals at a given location, the company said.

"A city such as Washington, D.C., has a complex mix of subway, walking, bicycling, bike sharing, buses, car sharing and taxi services," Transit Screen President Matt Caywood said in the announcement. "The challenge to us was how to make multimodal transit easier to use. Our Transit Screen displays provide real-time, location-specific transit information for all local transportation options. The traveler can instantly view the easiest, fastest or most convenient transportation option from that display's location."

Every 20-30 seconds, each individual Transit Screen receives the current arrival times for each transit agency at all stops within walking distance of its location. This real-time, reliable information is available through open data sharing from the Washington, D.C., transit agencies. Transit Screen is displayed on a standard monitor, needing only access to Wi-Fi Internet and a power outlet.

The firm has secured strategic partnerships with Business Improvement Districts such as Georgetown, Ballston and the Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization. By bringing Transit Screen displays into the communities and business districts, the BIDs hope to bring customers, businesses and residents to the area by promoting the ease of local transportation.

Urban planners in cities and municipalities, such as Falls Church, Va., are adding Transit Screen to future transportation demand management plans. The plan is that builders and developers will play a major role in promoting transportation alternatives to decrease the need for single occupancy vehicles.

Every Transit Screen will have its own customized display that displays options in a logical, memorable and predictable order, the company said. Customizations can also be made to include weather, airport delays, Twitter integration, custom maps and messaging, among others.

Transit Screen currently serves the Greater Washington, D.C., area, with plans to cover multiple other major North American cities in 2013, the company said.

Learn more about wayfinding digital signage.