Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) selects TextMarks as SMS Platform
Public transit authority of Whatcom County in northwestern Washington, Whatcom Transportation Authority (WTA) recently selected TextMarks as the SMS platform to deliver real-time bus arrival information. WTA provides 4.5 million rides annually.
According to General Manager Pete Stark, WTA is excited “to offer real-time information to our riding public.”
“People can now choose how to track their bus in real time, using an app on their phones or by SMS text message,” he said.
To use the service, WTA bus riders can text the keyword “RIDEWTA” followed by the stop ID number to 41411. Stop ID numbers and simple instructions will be posted throughout WTA’s 31 fixed routes.
Dan Kamins, CEO of TextMarks, said helping transit authorities like WTA deliver dynamic content to its riders is an important part of its business model.
“As transit authorities respond to — and anticipate — the needs of their riders, it’s important TextMarks continues to develop and implement seamless solutions that integrate SMS capabilities into their services,” he said.
Based in the city of Bellingham, WTA provides bus service on 31 fixed routes, including branded “GO Lines” with 15-minute frequencies on weekdays, to cities in its service area. To learn more, visit ridewta.com.
Founded in 2006 and based in Los Angeles, CA, TextMarks features an SMS platform that helps transit agencies, retail brands, enterprise businesses and nonprofits increase engagement and deliver timely information to millions of people.
