In January 2010, MATA initiated a program of technology improvements that will increase the efficiency of service delivery to passengers and upgrade our in-house operations and management capabilities. This program will be implemented in phases over the next two (2) years.
The undergoing ITS project is a product of continuous effort to provide outstanding customer service to Memphis Area passengers. For the last two years, MATA has conducted comprehensive studies and analysis of our operations and administration. As a result, we identified the need to procure a state-of-the-art Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). The system has established itself as a best practice among Transits world-wide, in an effort to provide better service to passengers, while streamlining operations for the Transit Authorities.
The project has completed the design review stage. All types of vehicles including busses, trolleys and para-transit vehicles were under review to gather design requirements. The project team also reviewed requirements for LED screens at the trolley stops and LCD screens at the transit centers. As the initial surveying of MATA facilities and fleet, the project team continued the design review and presented findings to MATA’s key officials. Currently, MATA progress toward the completion of data requirement review, and the procurement of necessary hardware and software equipment for and installation and acceptance testing. MATA and the project team also collaborated with the Memphis Planning Organization (MPO) to construct Memphis regional ITS architecture.
Below are some of the major benefits MATA’s ITS initiative will bring to the Memphis area.
By using global positioning systems (GPS), wireless communication systems, and other devices, passengers will benefit from:
More accurate schedule adherence
Automated bus stop annunciation - the name of each stop will be announced prior to arrival at the next stop
Access to estimated times of arrival and departure at bus stops
Real-time vehicle location on the map
Improved safety and security through the installation of 6 security cameras on buses and 8 cameras on Trolleys with live streaming capabilities
Bus Operators and Trolley Conductors will also enjoy the benefits of the APTS system by:
Utilizing latest radio technology to communicate with dispatchers
Provision of turn-by-turn direction of the Paratransit buses, which will reduce customer wait time and increase operational efficiency
Ability to monitor current passenger load and schedule adherence in real time – which allows operators and dispatchers to take corrective action in a timely manner
Discontinuing announcing the next stop, which will allow them to focus more on their driving – enhancing overall driving experience
Not having to worry about engine problems, which will be sent automatically as warnings to the dispatcher and maintenance crew
MATA’s operations and administration will also be able to streamline its operational, planning, and reporting activities by having access to:
Accurate and on-time passenger count information
Preventative maintenance information from all vehicles, streamed in real-time from the bus (or trolley)
Route performance/schedule optimization that allow to improve overall transit service in the area
In the following months we will be posting periodic updates on the current status and upcoming activities. MATA believes ITS will support its commitment "to providing quality public transportation and outstanding customer service for the citizens of Memphis service area".