Philadelphia's DIY Bus Trackers: A Creative Fix for a Flawed System

In Philadelphia, a group of artists took matters into their own hands. They created bus-tracking signs where none existed. These signs are not official. They are the work of local artists who are passionate about improving public transit.

Making Bus Times Accessible

The artists wanted to make bus times more accessible. Not everyone has a smartphone to check arrivals. Their signs use solar power and simple tech. They hope this pushes SEPTA to speed up its plans for official digital signs.

SEPTA's Slow Progress

SEPTA has been slow to roll out these signs. They signed a contract in 2024, but progress has been sluggish. Funding issues might be to blame. SEPTA faces a huge budget shortfall. The state had to step in with emergency funds.

Artists Take Action

The artists are not just complaining—they are doing something about it.

• Make it Weird plans to set up 10 signs.
• Bird designed a bird-themed sign.
• Max Goldberg, a creative director, made his own sign and put it in his home office window.

A Stopgap Solution

These DIY signs are a stopgap. The artists want to share their code. They hope others can replicate their work. Until then, they are helping commuters. Their signs are a reminder—public transit needs better funding and faster action.