Milwaukee streetcar rolls out rider app

Milwaukee streetcar system The Hop has introduced a new real-time app aimed at improving the rider experience.

Developed by TransLoc Inc., the TransLoc Rider app provides real-time positioning of all streetcars along the route and vehicle arrival time estimates for each station. Riders also can receive alerts when a streetcar is nearing a particular station or when service is impacted or delayed.

The free app currently is available for Apple or Android devices.

"We're still in the early stages of rolling out this real-time solution and will continue working to add additional amenities and monitor the system's accuracy," said Milwaukee Commissioner of Public Works Jeff Polenske in a press release.

The Hop's initial 2-mile route starts at the Amtrak-served Milwaukee Intermodal Station and serves various points downtown. Streetcars reach stations about every 15 minutes, depending on traffic and demand.