Westporters watch steadily increasing traffic in Saugatuck. With plans for more development in the area, and possible modernization of the Cribari Bridge, we worry there’s more to come.
Meanwhile, Waze and other apps contribute to clogged side streets everywhere, as commuters seek alternatives to the jammed-up Merritt Parkway, I-95 and Post Road.
For years, Metro-North riders have been able to ease the hassle by taking shuttle buses to the train station. But many potential customers are unaware of routes or options. Others don’t even know they exist.
The Westport Transit District has launched a marketing campaign to fix that. It involves emails, posters and route cards.
It also includes the rollout of a new MyStop app. Users track shuttles in real time, so they can step out of their house moments before it arrives. MyStop is available in the iPhone and Android stores, or by clicking here.
A screen shot of the myStop app shows Westport routes — and the location of the nearest shuttle.
The email portion of the marketing campaign targets railroad parking permit holders, people on the wait list, and those on the Parks and Recreation list. Messages will be sent this coming week, with follow-up emails planned for early next year.
The posters and cards — showing shuttle routes and other info — will be placed at the train stations, and throughout town.
The campaign was developed by Westport advertising executive Rob Feakins. Jyoti Dasgupta added fresh designs. The Railroad Parking Division is assisting the Westport Transit District with the initiative.
Look for the emails, posters and cards. Download the app. Try the shuttle.
It won’t make all the traffic go away. But perhaps your trip to the train will be a little less miserable.
