by Leo Suarez

The Ever Expanding Transit Tech Options in Raleigh

Have you ridden any GoRaleigh buses lately? It’s been about six months or so since fares have returned and at the same time, the number of ways to plan your trips and pay for your fare have increased. All those options are meant to help you, not confuse you, and so with lots of options out there, I wanted to take a second and get a list going of all the tech available for connoisseurs to get around Raleigh stress-free and fully informed.

“Impress your coworkers with live bus tacking, right on your phone!” is something we can say here in the year 2025. (and years past but it’s worth mentioning all the time really) Let me start out with the “Just do this” portion and then we’ll dive into the list.

Best Ways To Do GoRaleigh

2 Apps, 1 website.

  1. Pay for your fare with Umo – Install the app on your phone
  2. Plan your trip/Track your bus with Transit – Install the app on your phone
  3. For everything else, there’s goraleigh.org

Best Ways To Engage GoRaleigh

  1. Go to MyRaleigh Subscriptions and sign up for the “GoRaleigh News and Events” email newsletters.
  2. Follow GoRaleigh on the socials; there’s Facebook, Instagram, and X.

And now more on everything that’s out there for you to create your own Raleigh Mobility Kit.

GoRaleigh.org: Your Central Hub

The official GoRaleigh website is your go-to resource for all things transit-related. Here, you can sign up for service alerts to stay informed about any changes or updates to your usual routes. The site offers comprehensive maps and schedules, ensuring you have the latest information at your fingertips. Additionally, it’s the place to catch up on the latest news and developments within the GoRaleigh system. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional rider, GoRaleigh.org keeps you connected and informed.

GoRaleighlive.org: Real-Time Tracking Without the Hassle

For those who prefer not to download additional apps, GoRaleighlive.org is for you. This dedicated website provides live bus tracking and route planning directly from your desktop or mobile browser. Its user-friendly interface ensures you can quickly see where your bus is in real-time, helping you plan your journey with precision. No installations, no updates—just straightforward, reliable information when you need it.

Stay Connected Through Social Media

GoRaleigh maintains an active presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter). By following their accounts, you can receive timely updates, service alerts, and even engage with the community. It’s a convenient way to stay in the loop and connect with fellow riders, sharing experiences and tips.

Google Maps and Apple Maps: Integrated Route Planning

Both Google Maps and Apple Maps have integrated GoRaleigh’s transit data, allowing for efficient route planning. Simply input your destination, and these apps will provide detailed directions, including which bus to take, transfer points, and estimated travel times. This integration ensures that even if you’re new to the city or the transit system, you can navigate with confidence using tools you likely already use.

Umo App: All-in-One Travel Companion

The Umo app, available for both Android and iOS, is designed to streamline your transit experience. With Umo, you can plan trips, track buses in real-time, and pay your fare—all within a single app. The digital ticketing system is particularly convenient, allowing for quick and contactless payments. However, and it certainly could just be me, but my experience is inconsistent with the live bus tracking feature. Despite this, its comprehensive functionalities make it a valuable tool for regular commuters.

Transit App: A Robust Alternative

If you’re exploring alternatives, the Transit app offers robust route planning and real-time tracking features. Its intuitive design makes it easy to see upcoming departures and find the best routes. While it doesn’t currently support fare payments, its reliability in providing transit information has made it a favorite among many users. Plus, Raleigh is on the list of Transit Royale cities which makes the experience even better.

MicroLink: On-Demand Microtransit Service

GoRaleigh’s MicroLink service introduces flexibility to public transit with its on-demand microtransit options. Using the dedicated MicroLink app, you can request rides that connect you to the broader GoRaleigh network, making it easier to reach areas not serviced by regular bus routes. This service is especially beneficial for those in suburban areas or for trips during off-peak hours.

Text Messaging Service: Quick Arrival Updates

For quick updates without accessing the internet, GoRaleigh offers a convenient text messaging service. By texting “Raleigh” followed by your bus stop number to 41411 (e.g., “Raleigh 8182”), you’ll receive estimated arrival times for buses at that stop. This feature is perfect for those moments when you’re on the go and need immediate information.

Open Data Portal: Empowering Developers and Enthusiasts

Raleigh’s commitment to transparency is evident through its Open Data Portal. This platform provides access to a wealth of transit-related data, including routes and bus stop locations. Developers can utilize this information to create innovative applications, while data enthusiasts can delve into transit patterns and performance metrics. It’s a valuable resource for anyone interested in the technical aspects of our city’s transit system.

That list should cover it all and we certainly may see some new ones in the future. The options are certainly welcome but I do wonder if the plethora of options may inadvertently confuse people. There’s also an accessibility angle here that I’m not well versed in yet to know if these technologies are helping or not. Either way, it seems like options are good and I hope riders are using these options to keep them more informed.

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