Moovit releases real-time crowding, wheelchair accessible feature for its app

Feb. 17, 2021

Moovit has rolled out two new features to promote safer and more comfortable transit rides: Real-time crowding information and wheelchair accessibility.

Mischa Wanek-Libman

Moovit has rolled out real-time crowding information in its app.

Maintaining social distance can help transit riders feel safe and Moovit is incorporating real-time crowding information into its app, which is used by more than 65 transit agencies across the United States, Canada, Australia, Italy and Singapore. The app now displays Available Seats, Standing Room Only or Crowded in the Itinerary, Live Directions, Stations, Line Details and Favorite Lines screens.

“Real-time crowding information eliminates another layer of uncertainty from public transit, especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Moovit Chief Growth and Marketing Officer Yovav Meydad.

Akron Metro Regional Transit Authority (RTA) in Ohio says the new feature will help its riders make “educated decisions and feel safety riding mass transportation.”

“As we continue navigating this pandemic, real-time crowding information is another valuable tool we can provide to help our passengers feel safe and comfortable while riding,” said Akron Metro RTA CEO Dawn Distler. “For those with carts or strollers, this will also provide peace of mind knowing when there’s extra space onboard for a comfortable trip and help them make travel decisions that work best for them.”

In addition to real-time crowding information, Moovit’s app will also share wheelchair accessible buses, which Moovit says will be in addition to the wheelchair-accessible routes and stations that the app already identifies. The symbol to be displayed indicating wheelchair accessibility has been redesigned by Moovit “to show a more dynamic and engaged person with disability in motion.”

Moovit notes the app is enhanced with screen reading features for low vision users, including TalkBack/VoiceOver capabilities and is designed with optimized menus and buttons for people with hand-motor disabilities.

“Having one app that shows wheelchair accessible lines, routes and stations can be life changing for wheelchair users,” said Meydad. “A vehicle that is not accessible could make getting around impossible, but a single app that makes journey planning more streamlined and simple can open up new opportunities for them.”

About the Author

Mischa Wanek-Libman | Editor in Chief

Mischa Wanek-Libman serves as editor in chief of Mass Transit magazine. She is responsible for developing and maintaining the magazine’s editorial direction and is based in the western suburbs of Chicago.

Wanek-Libman has spent more than 20 years covering transportation issues including construction projects and engineering challenges for various commuter railroads and transit agencies. She has been recognized for editorial excellence through her individual work, as well as for collaborative content.

She is an active member of the American Public Transportation Association's Marketing and Communications Committee and serves as a Board Observer on the National Railroad Construction and Maintenance Association (NRC) Board of Directors.

She is a graduate of Drake University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Mass Communication with a major in magazine journalism and a minor in business management.