MTA Bus Time

The software uses Global Positioning System (GPS) technology equipped in buses to relay real-time location information to passengers via internet-enabled devices (particularly smartphones), SMS messages, or countdown clocks installed at bus stops.

[1][2] The current Bus Time system uses on-board GPS and wireless communication units, at the cost of about $20,000 per vehicle.

[4][5][6] The hardware is provided by two companies, Verifone and Cubic Transportation Systems, with GPS devices supplied by Trimble Navigation, and open source software called OneBusAway.

[21][17] In 1999, the New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) planned to launch a tracking and countdown clock program on the Q60 route (then privately operated under a DOT subsidy by Green Bus Lines) along Queens Boulevard.

[25] After issues with arrival time accuracy, the clocks were shut down in February 2008, and MTA pulled out of the program in early 2009.

These clocks were installed at the top of the Cemusa bus shelters at the stops by Long Island-based Clever Devices, which provided the GPS equipment free of charge.

[15] Around this time, many new Orion VII NG buses delivered to the MTA were equipped with AVL consoles built by Clever Devices.

[26][27] On October 14, 2010, the first version of the Bus Time web service, also developed by Clever Devices, was launched along the route using the same GPS system.

[21][31] The pilot route for the most recent iteration of MTA Bus Time was the B63 in Brooklyn, where thirty buses were equipped with the technology in February 2011.

[11][34] In 2019, the MTA Bus Time and MYmta apps began displaying real-time passenger counts for express buses.