Pittsburgh transit agency brings real-time tracking to rail system

The Port Authority of Allegheny County has implemented a real-time tracking system for light-rail service, the agency announced last week.

The so-called "TrueTime" system enables riders to track the status and location of light-rail trains. Passengers can access the information on a separate website.

"This has been one of the most anticipated items from rail riders for several years," said Port Authority Interim Chief Executive Officer David Donahoe in a press release. "Realtime information reduces time riders spend waiting for public transit and allows them to make better, more informed decisions about their transit experience."

The authority has installed location tracking devices on more than 80 light-rail vehicles and implemented a system to help overcome tracking-service limitations while trains are underground.

Third-party transit-app developers are expected to integrate the rail tracking feature soon, agency officials said.