New York City’s subway is the city’s lifeline; the heart of the city. But the commuting from place to place can take a toll on you. It’s not so much the commuting but the waiting.
“The New York City Subway is one of the world’s oldest public transit systems. By annual ridership, the New York City Subway is the busiest rapid transit rail system in the United States and in the Americas, as well as the seventh busiest rapid transit rail system in the world; the metro (subway) systems in Seoul, Beijing, Shanghai, Moscow, Tokyo, and Guangzhou record a higher annual ridership.” (Wikipedia, 2/10/2015)
Although, commuting on public transportation can be entertaining. Pan-handlers, singers and/or the occasional band disturbing the peace, in my opinion, add to the charm of the city that never sleeps. However, spending time waiting for the train is a different story and the one thing I dislike the most about the MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority). As a native New Yorker, I can recall the time when we just showed up at our station and hoped for the best. It was like playing a game of Russian Roulette when the next train would arrive.
Technology has changed and slightly improved this guessing game. By installing digital realtime schedules strap-hangers’ pain of waiting and not knowing when the train will arrive are reduced. The digital real-time scheduler at the stations is helpful but it’s when you’re at home getting ready to head out or catch a bus that you want to know where you stand against the schedule. Waiting for a bus to arrive can be absolutely horrible. It was odd when I visited London years ago and they had digital real-time schedulers for the buss. This simply amazed me.
I rarely write about amazing apps but this is one every New Yorker or someone visiting should download.
It’s “Transit-App.” I absolutely love this app and it has become my best friend. I can check when the next train will arrive at my stop before I leave the house.
In addition, the app displays all nearby transportation options and departure times instantly. Bus running late, again? Quickly plan a new route, request an Uber, or grab the closest bike share. “Transit-App” makes your daily commute a breeze.
Best of all, it’s free.
