26 Aug 2012: SEQ: Call for TransLink to release GTFS information ...

[ozbob]

Media release 26 August 2012

SEQ: Call for TransLink to release GTFS information for Google Transit

RAIL Back On Track (http://backontrack.org) a web based community support group for rail and public transport and an advocate for public transport passengers has called for the release of TransLink's GTFS (General Transit Feed Specification) information to Google for use in Google Transit (1).

Robert Dow, Spokesman for RAIL Back On Track said:

"The list of Transit Agencies providing GTFS is a long one (2). The list includes Adelaide, Perth and Sydney."

Main reasons why it should be implemented:

- Technological advancement (bringing us up to speed with 500+ cities like Adelaide)

- Instant live schedules anywhere on smart phones

- Free of charge courtesy of Google

- Translink runs on schedules timetable so easily implemented as GTFS

- Easier accessibility to timetables for buses for children at stations and tourists who are familiar with Google Transit (already available in their countries)

"Support for adding the south-east Queensland TransLink network information to Google Transit is wide spread.  A recent poll at RAIL Back On Track was 100% in support (3)."

"This is one initiative that would have considerable benefit for public transport in south-east Queensland at very little cost. Time we moved on from being a public transport backwater."

References:

1.  Google Transit http://www.google.com/intl/en/landing/transit/#mdy

2.  Transit Agencies Providing GTFS Data http://www.gtfs-data-exchange.com/agencies

3.  http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=8900.0

Contact:

Robert Dow
Administration
admin@backontrack.org
RAIL Back On Track http://backontrack.org

[ozbob]

Discussion thread --> http://railbotforum.org/mbs/index.php?topic=8900.msg108083#msg108083