Logistics, Transportation and Parking has been working diligently on several changes to improve user experience and accessibility for the Transit system. These changes will be implemented at the start of the Winter 2025 semester, and we wanted to share the details so you are well informed of what to expect.
Changes and Improvements
Bus Labeling with Route Identifiers
- Buses will be labeled using the route identifiers that are used in Magic Bus on the rear illuminator. These identifiers will be simpler to read, and provide consistent labeling across the bus illuminators, Magic Bus app, Rider Guide, and website.
Recolored Route Identifiers
- The route identifiers and routes on the Magic Bus app have been recolored to ensure accessibility for all users. In the bus route guide, each route identifier will now be listed alongside the full route name, helping you make the association between the full route name and shorter route identifier that is used on buses and the Magic Bus app.
Major Stop Boarding Plans
- At busy transit hubs such as Pierpont Commons and Central Campus Transit Center (CCTC), we have introduced detailed boarding plans. These plans indicate where each bus will stop, making it easier for you to know exactly where to wait for your desired bus. This improvement aims to reduce confusion, especially for new users, and streamline the boarding process at these major stops.
Updated Bus Stop Signs
- High traffic bus stops will also have new signs that have the updated route identifiers, along with directional indicators, to describe which direction the buses are headed in. These stops include CCTC, Pierpont, Fuller Road, stops on East Medical Center Drive, Cooley, and FXB. These new signs are to clear up any confusion on which buses will be arriving at the stops, and what the destination will be.
QR Codes For Stop Arrivals
- QR codes have been posted at all major bus shelters so that users can quickly scan the QR code and get directed to a webpage for that particular stop, which shows the estimated arrival time for every U-M bus that is scheduled to arrive at that stop.
New Transit “How-To-Ride” Video
- In partnership with Michigan Media, a video of how to ride the bus and navigate the transit system has been created. The new video is aimed at new users of the transit system, but it is a great refresher for all riders and members of the university community. The finalized video is expected to be completed soon, so please be on the lookout for it under the Rider Guide section of our website.
Why These Changes?
The modifications are intended to:
- Simplify the navigation and understanding of our bus routes.
- Enhance accessibility for all users, especially those with visual impairments.
- Provide clear guidance on bus boarding at major stops to facilitate a smoother transit experience.
We understand that changes to familiar systems can take some time to adapt to. However, we are confident that these updates will significantly improve your transit experience. We encourage you to review the updated bus route guide available on our website and look for the changes when you return from break.
