Hit the road: Valley Metro releases free trip-planning app

PHOENIX — Planning a ride on Phoenix-area buses and light rail is now easier and more high-tech.

Valley Metro launched a smartphone app, Ridekick, aimed at taking some of the hassle out of using public transportation in the Valley.

“It’s free, convenient (and) easy to use,” Ann Glaser, public information specialist with Valley Metro, said.

Glaser said one of the app’s primary features is letting people know where their ride is.

“It pulls real-time schedule data so riders can plan a trip and get up-to-the-minute arrival times on bus and light rail,” she said.

Some of the other features are interactive maps and bookmarking favorite routes.

Glaser said the app will be a useful tool for all kinds of riders, from regular to infrequent.

“It’s really designed to make it easier for people to navigate Valley Metro bus and light rail whether they use it daily or if someone wants to try public transit for the first time,” she said.

The app is now available for free on both Apple and Android smartphones.