The Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) is adding new enhancements to the city's transit system, including real-time tracking information, an electronic fare system and automated stop announcement systems on every MCTS bus.

The real-time tracking information will help bus riders know where their particular bus is at all times and know when it is expected to arrive at a stop. The information will be available through several mediums – including the RideMCTS website, mobile devices and a phone system – starting in early 2014.

The addition of an electronic fare system will also hopefully help streamline the transit experience. The program will involve M-CARDs, which are reusable and re-loadable smart cards. Riders will be able to load cards with a one, seven or 31-day pass, or a specific dollar amount for one or multiple rides. The smart cards will replace MCTS's current paper passes and tickets, and will be available to purchase online. The cards are expected to be available in the first few months of 2014, with fare boxes installed throughout the city by the end of the current year. 

Lastly, MCTS is also adding an automated stop announcement system, featuring an electronic sign and audio, on every MCTS bus by the end of the year.

These new transit features will be available to view on Thursday, Dec. 5, between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the MCTS Fleet Maintenance Building, 1525 W. Vine St.