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WASHINGTON - Metro and the District Department of Transportation have launched a web-based mobile application that will allow riders to track the location and arrival time of District buses.

DDOT launched 'Where's My Bus?' on Friday for Circulator buses and Metro launches 'NextBus' on Wednesday. An Internet connection is needed for the applications, whether its on your cell phone, iPhone, Blackberry or home computer. Both programs use GPS technology so the information is sent out in real time, which could save bus riders a lot of time and frustration.

"It kind of makes it frustrating waiting and it still hasn't came," said bus rider Luvontae Jackson.

Jackson says he rides the bus all the time and uses his Blackberry all the time. Now with the new applications, he can do both.

"Like if you're running late, you know exactly where the bus is at and how quickly to get it done."

DDOT Director Gabe Klein says it's a new world. "I think smart phones are becoming the norm for people in urban environments."

Customers now want information, on demand, any time and anywhere. "In the winter, it's cold. Wouldn't you rather be waiting in your office for 9 or 10 minutes?"

Using GPS technology, DDOT's application allows riders to track each bus down to a tenth of a mile. From Klein's office at 14th and U Streets, he tests the programs accuracy. "I'm going to hit refresh and sure enough, it's at 14th and T."

Older riders say they'll just continue catching the bus at random. "I just come out and catch the bus. There's always buses coming and going," said bus rider Maxine Deskins.

But younger riders like Jackson say the application will save valuable time. "Yeah, I would definitely use this. I'd recommend it to everyone on the street."

--The 'Where's My Bus' application only covers the Circulator buses. To track your bus, visit: http://circulator.dc.gov/

--The NextBus application will be unveiled on July 1, 2009. For more information, visit: http://nextbusdc.com/

--NextBus tracks buses across the United States. For a full listing, including Maryland and Virginia stops, visit: http://www.nextbus.com/predictor/agencySelector.jsp

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