Travelling by bus has been made easier for passengers with visual impairments thanks to new Real Time Information (RTI) technology now available in more of Portsmouth’s bus stops.
Fitted with screen-reader technology, the new Real Time Information (RTI) kit includes units in 120 of the city’s bus shelters and 20 pole-mounted units at bus stops without shelters. Of the 545 bus stops in Portsmouth, 230 now have audio-enabled technology.
RTI units display a countdown estimated time of arrival of bus services calling at that stop. It uses GPS data from detectors installed in each bus to calculate how far away the bus is from the stop and how long the bus will take to arrive.
The new pole-mounted and bus-shelter units have screen reader technology installed which, when activated, announces bus arrival times. Pole-mounted units work with a push-button, while RTI units in shelters work with a special audio fob, which is available to residents from Portsmouth City Council.
The new technology has been made available through the government’s Transforming Cities Fund and forms part of the council’s drive to improve public transport in the city, for all.
When travelling on public transport, during the coronavirus, please check the latest government advice on how to travel safely and reduce the spread of the virus, including wearing a face covering and washing your hands regularly.
Councillor Lynne Stagg, Portsmouth’s Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transportation, comments. “Having access to the right information is essential for good public transport travel. People want to know when their bus is due, and whether it is on time.
Information needs to be readily available and inclusive, and these new RTI units means that everyone can access the information they need to travel with confidence.”
To request an audio fob Portsmouth residents should contact Portsmouth City Council on 023 9282 9923.