More useless and expensive electronic gizoms that "feel good but do little if any actual good" are coming. Just got this e-mail from them:
NEW CUSTOMER INFORMATION SYSTEM
Now boarding…!
The PTIS (Passenger Train Information System) is ready for launching on the Greenbush, Middleborough/Lakeville and Plymouth/Kingston Lines and will go into service January 8, 2010. This system will provide you with “real-time†information at stations and utilizes a countdown format on easy to read electronic message boards while you are standing on the platform. This has been made possible by the recent installation of the GPS equipment on each train that also provides automated on-board announcements. The new system will give you accurate train arrival information and help improve safety by alerting passengers of the approaching train.
Coming Soon!
In conjunction with the “next train†countdown offering the MBTA is also preparing to launch a communications system that will allow passengers to get this same information from their car radios. You will soon be able to tune-in to a frequency on your car’s AM dial so that you can stay in your automobile until just before your train is due to arrive at the station. This will be rolled out and tested at the Anderson Regional Transportation Center by the end of January with availability at all stations that have 50 or more parking spaces to follow soon after.
For updates on both of these exciting new prospects please log on to www.mbta.com
They don't want to pay to keep the trains properly staffed and maintained, yet they somehow find money to waste on "essential" public information systems because management has decided that they need to appease people who are too lazy to look up a train schedule or keep an eye on their watch. Where's the outrage?
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