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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 2, 2010

METRO TO INSTALL NEW COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM TO IMPROVE OPERATIONS AND CUSTOMER SERVICE
Metro’s new radio system funded 100% with federal ARRA (stimulus) funds

CINCINNATI –Metro will be installing a transit communication system from Trapeze ITS that includes automated vehicle location (GPS), better radio communications between buses and central dispatch, and new customer information options.

The new system will be fully operational by late 2011 and will replace Metro’s current radio communications system, which is one of the last of its kind in the country and difficult to maintain. The new transit communications system will connect Metro’s 337 buses, 55 Access vehicles, and supervisor vehicles to central dispatch to improve operational efficiency and emergency response (police, fire, medical). The new system will provide real-time arrival and departure information for customers at Metro’s Government Square transit hub downtown and several other key locations, similar to flight arrival and departure information at airports. The modernized system will also make it possible for Metro to provide real-time bus information via smart phones and PDAs.

SORTA secured 100% federal funding for this $8.4 million project through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

“It is critical that we replace our current outdated system,” said Marilyn Shazor, Metro’s CEO. “The new transit communications system will support our efforts to improve efficiency, enhance safety, and increase customer satisfaction.”

Metro is a non-profit, tax-funded public service of the Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority, providing more than 19 million rides per year. Metro supports the economy, protects the environment, encourages energy independence, and improves the quality of life in Greater Cincinnati.