Some Metra riders will see train times on new screens
Metra will test digital message boards displaying train arrival and departure times at some of its downtown stations this fall.
The technology will pop up at the LaSalle Street Station initially, then at Millennium Station and Ogilvie Transportation Center.
Union Station, which is owned by Amtrak, was not included in the announcement. Metra is "starting at stations that are under our control," spokesman Michael Gillis said.
The pilot project with Clear Channel Outdoor will expand to 22 suburban stations later in 2017. Metra has not yet identified what suburban stations will receive screens.
In addition to train times, the message screens will show weather and delay information, as well as public service announcements and emergency alerts.
Metra also said it will coordinate with municipalities that want to use the message boards for local notices.
Clear Channel Outdoor is paying about $1 million for equipment, software and installation. The outdoor advertising company has a contract with Metra for ads at its train stations through 2021.