Metra upgrades website, adds real-time info on train locations

Metra unveiled an upgraded website Wednesday that shows train locations in real time.

Metra CEO Don Orseno said real-time information is something that Metra customers had requested and “we’re real excited because we’re giving the customers what they asked for.”

By going to “Schedules and Maps” at metrarail.com, selecting their line and destination, and then hitting “Line Maps,” customers can see the location of trains in real time, updated about every 30 seconds.

On-time trains are indicated in green; ones that are behind schedule are displayed in red.

The graphics reflect real-time information as long as Metra’s GPS system is working, which should be indicated in the display.

Even with the introduction of real-time tracking and other enhanced features, Metra is saving about $400,000 a year by piggybacking on an existing Cook County government contract for web services with Clarity Partners, Orseno said.