Google Transit feature: Park and ride / drive to commuter rail

I learned about a new feature in Google Maps/Transit this morning.

Since many commuter rail services are set up for park and ride, the trip planner will suggest travelers drive to the rail station in some cases.

Here’s an example trip on Chicago’s Metra service (screenshot of itinerary below).

alternate-drive-to-metra-routes1

A driving leg to a train station is only offered when there are no feeder bus services in the area.

I am curious to learn more about how this works and see how it will develop. Currently, the trip planner doesn’t return very long driving legs (if you start more than about 4 miles away from a rail station, Google Maps returns a message that transit is not available for the trip). Seems like information about stop features like parking could help here, as well.

Aaron is the founding principal of Trillium Solutions, Inc. He brings experience that includes 13 years of experience in public transportation, with knowledge of fixed-route transportation, paratransit, rural transportation, and active transportation modes. Aaron is a recognized expert in developing data standards, web-application design, digital communications, and online marketing strategy. He originally developed Trillium’s GTFS Manager, and has played a key role in the development of the GTFS data specification since 2007.