CTA expands 'Train Tracker' functions

Yesterday, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) unveiled new features to its Train Tracker to help riders access travel information more quickly from their computers or mobile phones.

The features include "Follow this train," which enables a rider to click or tap on an approaching train on the Train Tracker and get estimates of how long it will take to get to each upcoming stop; and "Stops near me," which lets riders with GPS-enabled devices detect the closest stations to their locations, CTA officials said in a press release.

The additional features also include a station name search function, improved schedule information, new train location map and an updated stop selector, they said.

Train Tracker has been a popular service among riders, said CTA President Forrest Claypool.

"The information available through CTA Train Tracker helps thousands of riders plan and manage their commutes every day, and planning those trips just became easier," he said.