Electronic Next Bus Signs

Metrobus shelter electronic arrival signs

The Metrobus electric shelter signs display four pieces of information, from left-to-right to help
show the next bus arriving at the stop.

1. Transit Provider: a one- or two-letter abbreviation indicating which of these regional bus providers services the stop:

2. Route: numbers and/or letters that identify the route, for example: X2, 30N, 30S.

3. Destination: indicates the final stop of the bus route, often matching the sign displayed on the front of the bus (for example: Lafayette Square or Minnesota Avenue).

4. Estimated arrival time: in minutes, for the next two consecutive buses, for example: 15, 30).

Note:

  • When "ARR" is displayed, that means the bus is less than a minute away according to the Next Bus predictions.
  • Arrival predictions are pulled from our Next Bus system. If Next Bus is unable to pull estimated arrival times for any reason - like a bus off route or the Next Bus system difficulties - the signs will pull schedule information. This is indicated with an "s" in front of a scheduled arrival time ("s4:46"). Scheduled times are also available on printed bus timetables or via the Trip Planner.
  • REMEMBER: a bus may not arrive at its scheduled time due to unforeseen circumstances, such as traffic congestion, road closures, or inclement weather.

Urgent messages on Next Bus signs.

These electronic Next Bus signs are designed to also display MetroAlerts - our alert/advisory notification messages - weekdays from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. In the event a service alert is issued for a road closure, police activity, accident, or other unexpected incident delaying service, a message will automatically display on signs located along affected routes. At other times, planned service changes - like weekend events, upcoming schedule changes, and major stop changes - may be programmed to also display on the signs.

In the event of a major service disruption, due to inclement weather or special event, a message will scroll across the electronic Next Bus screen in a large display, as shown above.

ADA compliant push for audio button REMEMBER, even though a message may scroll to indicate limited or no Metrobus service, arrival times are still programmed to display. Scrolling service messages override arrival times.

The electronic signs are also ADA compliant. A push-for-audio button, always located on the right side of the shelter, provides an version audio of messages displayed on the sign. Tapping the center button adjusts the volume.

Customers can enhance their trip experience by learning about service changes before they travel. Sign up for MetroAlerts at wmata.com/metroalerts to receive email and text message notifications for up to four Metrobus lines. Or, follow @metrobusinfo on Twitter for up-to-the-minute travel information and advice.