In a bid to enhance the daily commute experience for Chicagoans, Gemma DeCetra and David Khachatryan have launched EL Tracker, a user-friendly app designed to simplify access to train and bus schedules.
Having faced the challenges posed by clunky transit applications, the duo began developing the free app in October 2023 to better serve commuters navigating between Chicago stations.
EL Tracker originally launched as an exclusive iOS app, featuring arrival times for various train stations alongside convenient widgets.
As downloads surged, the team expanded its features and introduced an Android version to cater to a wider audience.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, Khachatryan incorporated various accessible features for riders with disabilities, including compatibility with screen readers and voice-to-text services.
The app also highlights which stations offer elevators and notes any that are currently out of service, addressing concerns for passengers with mobility issues.
Additionally, EL Tracker provides information in multiple languages such as Spanish, Polish, and Armenian, further extending its reach.
DeCetra, who has taken on the role of lead graphic designer for the app, emphasizes the significance of user-friendly design.
“It is super important because having an app is one thing, but having one that looks good and feels good to use is what we think has made this successful,” she stated.
On Thursday, June 26, the EL Tracker team celebrated the launch of the Android version with a party at the Transit Tees store in Wicker Park, a hub that also sponsored the app.
Tim Gillengerten, owner of Transit Tees and a Columbia College alum, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration: “We thought it was amazing.”
Grayson Snyder, a commuter from Evanston who has utilized the app since September 2022, shared his appreciation for its widget functionality.
“I love actually having widgets. I don’t have to open apps every time I want to check train schedules,” he remarked at the launch event.
Maherah Shaik from Little Italy echoed similar sentiments, favoring the EL Tracker app over the official Ventra app.
“I like how the graphics are vivid, and I feel like it expands more than the Ventra app,” she noted.
DeCetra stated, “It’s for Chicagoans. It’s for the commuters. It’s for the people who ride the train every day.”
Despite its advantages, the EL Tracker app does not offer features such as adding value to transit cards or account management, which are available in the Ventra app.
However, the app serves as a valuable resource for Columbia College students who qualify for the U-Pass card, enabling unlimited rides.
According to a 2023 survey, over half of the students identify as commuters, with 66% using the CTA rail line and 51% relying on the bus for their daily travels.
Many students report spending between 30 to 50 minutes commuting each way, making EL Tracker an appealing option.
“It’s definitely not about us,” Khachatryan emphasized, “It’s definitely about the people who share this interest.”
image source from：columbiachronicle
