GRTC Transit System is now offering a new online trip planner service featuring Google Transit on http://www.ridegrtc.com .

Riders will no longer have to sort through timetables. They can simply enter the date and time they hope to arrive at their destination (or depart for the trip). The trip planner will provide three options, showing the amount of time and number of transfers for each option. This allows the rider to select the most convenient trip.

Google Maps can provide walking directions, so riders can find out exactly how to get to the nearest bus stop and how to get to their destination once they leave the bus.

Trip Planning is also available on “smart” mobile phones, making the information available at people’s fingertips where ever they are. It can help get them out of a bind if they don’t know which routes service a particular area or what the timetables are.

Google Maps supports more than 40 languages, making it convenient for foreign language riders, whether residents or international tourists, to find directions and information in their native language.

For more information, call GRTC Customer Service at 358-4782.