METROLift Patrons Can Now Book Trips Online

METRO has just made it easier for METROLift riders to book their trips. Now, METROLift riders can go online and book their trips using a client ID and password.

Called MACS-WEB, (METROLift Automated Computer System on the Web), the computerized system mirrors the automated phone system we have had since last January, said Mary Ann Dendor, METRO's Americans with Disabilities Act administrator.

The computerized system was introduced last month, and as of today, we have had 45 users. METROLift riders can go online and book trips from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or they can go online to review trips and cancel any unwanted trips 24/7.

"The feedback we're getting from people is that it's quick and easy for them to use," said Dendor. 

Online users must choose a destination from a previously used address because all addresses must be geocoded with a longitude and latitude so that the scheduling system can locate the address.

"What I'm hoping this will do is that when people go to our Web site, they will also look at our bus & rail schedules. Maybe they can ride the bus or rail because it is easier and more convenient," explained Dendor. "This will be a help to them. They will understand that METRO has accessible service for everybody, and that they have transportation choices."

For example, a patron might use METROLIft to get picked up from his house and taken to the Veteran's Hospital. Then, if that person had another appointment at the Texas Medical Center, he could take a regular, fixed-route METRO bus, which runs about every 15 minutes to the TMC.

All our buses and rail are wheelchair accessible with automated stop announcements of major intersections.

So far, MACS-WEB has been a smooth rollout, said Dendor.

"I think mainly because we've tried to make it as user-friendly as possible. We hope that many people will enjoy it. What about those without computers? They can go to places with computers - their doctors' office, community organizations. Or family members can check for them," said Dendor.  

And don't forget we still have MACS. (METROLift's Automated Calling System).  With MACS, customers can schedule their rides, verify trip times and cancel trips over the telephone without a computer.  

"We're trying to help make it easier for METROLift riders to make their trips, know what times their trips are and then cancel any unwanted trips," she said.

And now with a click away, we hope it's easier for you