PIDS Project For DART
The Passenger Information Display System (PIDS) project for DART aims to replace and modernize the existing Public Address system and Visual Message Boards, enhancing real-time passenger communication across all DART properties and assets.
This new system will provide clear and synchronized visual and audio updates on arrivals, departures, service changes, emergencies, and safety information while ensuring seamless interoperability.
Key objectives of the project include enhancing information delivery, improving system resiliency, strengthening cybersecurity, upgrading audio functionality, and improving the passenger communication experience.
Additionally, the new PIDS will feature an enhanced system operator interface, support future Light Rail Transit (LRT) buildout projects, and incorporate operations within the Combined Control Center.
The system will also facilitate third-party interoperability for inbound and outbound communication of notifications and alert messaging. DART seeks to unify the origination, coordination, and delivery of key rider messaging by integrating structured data from General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) and GTFS-Realtime (GTFS-R), including service alerts, vehicle positions, and trip updates.
The PIDS will be capable of ingesting Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) that support various data formats and ensuring seamless integration with vendor and third-party systems.
Moreover, the system will accommodate both ad-hoc and pre-configured (“canned”) messages for special events and emergency situations, ensuring passengers receive timely and relevant information in all circumstances.
