Altoona, PA - AMTRAN is launching its new web site today to bring more information and services to current and future AMTRAN riders.

In addition to complete service schedules, maps and fare information, the new site, located at http://www.amtran.org/, is supporting better communications between the transit agency and its customers. A new “Rider Alert” feature enables customers to register for email or cellular phone messages should service on an AMTRAN route be delayed, re-routed or cancelled.

"Our service is very important to our customers," says Eric Wolf, AMTRAN General Manager. "They rely on us to be dependable. So if there is a road construction delay or a planned change to their route, they want to know about it. Our new Rider Alert system enables us to stay in touch with them and keep them up to date on the bus routes that they use."

"The customers can change their Rider Alert preferences or unsubscribe at any time from the website," Wolf explains. "They are in control." Rider alert information is being posted on the home page of the new AMTRAN site as well. Other new communications features include an interactive comment card and weekly on-line polls about AMTRAN and community issues. 

AMTRAN Launches Enhanced Web Site

Built by inCommand Technologies, a Corning, New York technology and software development firm, the site includes a customized content management system that allows AMTRAN to update, expand and improve site content.

The new web site is part of the AMTRAN multi-year Technology Strategic Plan which addresses nearly every phase of AMTRAN operations. The initial project phase – an analysis of the internal administrative and operational processes – was completed last fall and resulted in both software and hardware upgrades. The upgrades completed include AMTRAN financial, accounting and maintenance management systems.

The second project phase now underway includes the implementation of ITS (Intelligent Transportation System) applications to further enhance customer information services. Within the next 9-12 months, customers will be able to receive "real-time" information via the web or through their mobile phone so that they know when the next bus will be arriving at their bus stop.

The development and implementation of the AMTRAN technology plan is being financed with a $1.3 million federal funding package secured through the efforts of many local, state and federal officials and led by U. S. Congressman Bill Shuster.

AMTRAN was established in 1958 as the first public transit agency in Pennsylvania. AMTRAN provides public transportation to the residents of Blair County with fixed route and demand response services. AMTRAN seeks to improve the economic well-being and quality of life for its riders by offering safe, convenient and affordable public transportation services. For more information about AMTRAN, please call 814-944-4074 or visit AMTRAN on line at www.amtran.org.