Media Release
Metro Transit introduces use of Google Search for convenient trip planning
(Wednesday, July 15, 2009) - Planning a trip on public transit in Halifax Regional Municipality has just gotten a whole lot easier. The information is now merely a Google search away! Halifax Regional Municipality and Metro Transit are pleased to announce the introduction of transit in Google Maps. In partnership with HRM's E-Commerce & Web Services division and the worldwide search engine, Google, our region can now provide both existing and potential new passengers a helpful tool with convenient trip planning capabilities to help them navigate through Metro Transit's service area with ease.
On the launch, Mayor Peter Kelly said, "An important consideration in any region is how to get around efficiently, whether for a resident or a visitor who is not as familiar with the area. The introduction of access to Google Maps for Metro Transit users is one major step forward in making improvements to our public transit system. We have committed to the improvement of our transportation network as one of Council's main Areas of Focus, as citizens have told us they want a better transit system. The ease of transportation is the mark of a good community."
The ability for any person to access transit on Google Maps via computer or handheld device will help supplement the more traditional formats used to communicate transit information, such as printed route maps and schedules or by calling the HRM Call Centre. The new results received will include both a Google map and text, along with the provision of connection times for Metro Transit's conventional bus route, MetroLink or ferry services. HRM becomes the ninth city in Canada to offer trip planning for transit on Google Maps. To find out how to plan a trip visit www.halifax.ca/googletransit
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For further information, contact:
Mayor Peter Kelly
Halifax Regional Municipality
Tel: 490-4010
Lori Patterson
Metro Transit
Tel: 490-6609
Gian Pompilio
HRM E-Commerce & Web Services
Tel: 490-1440
