University Times

Now those with access to the Internet can benefit from "Take the Bus," an Internet-based public transit mapping service developed by Pitt's Graduate School of Public and International Affairs (GSPIA).

"Take the Bus" uses geographic information systems technology to help people identify public transportation routes between any two points within Allegheny County.

"We believe this project plays a valuable and complementary role in linking our county, in helping people access a wide range of employment opportunities and recreation areas, and in connecting them to friends and family," said David Y. Miller, GSPIA associate dean and professor.

The prototype service — accessible on the web at: www.takethebus.org — generates free, interactive maps using a web interface that minimizes user-learning curves. Users enjoy instant access to regional maps that are linked to job banks, business locations, and transportation, human services and other relevant databases. The site shows a map of the bus route, has links to Port Authority bus schedules and points out where transfers are required. Also included are job postings through Career Links and the Pittsburgh Job Partnership.

"The initial goal of the project was to help disadvantaged job seekers by lowering transportation barriers," said GSPIA's Daniel Campbell, project coordinator.

"But its usefulness has expanded. 'Take the Bus' will be able to help you locate services near work or home, such as schools, daycare centers and health care facilities. Whether you are going to work or visiting family and friends, you can take the bus and take care of your life along the way."

The project is funded by the Henry C. and Belle Doyle McEldowney Fund and the Scott Fund of the Pittsburgh Foundation. It was developed with the assistance of Pitt's School of Information Sciences.

The idea for the "Take the Bus" project grew out of discussions by the Access to Work Task Force of Allegheny County.