Metro-North riders such as Zack Lehmann and Paul Simpson can now receive text message updates, making it easier for commuters to get up-to-date information on when their trains will be arriving and departing. "That will be really good, especially now," Simpson said, referring to the recent delays and scheduling problems caused by harsh winter weather. Simpson, a regular traveler on Metro-North, said the train service has been especially frustrating recently.

"It's been really crowded. And they're using old cars. We were supposed to get new ones, but we haven't." He said the new service would come in handy when he's running late for a train or unable to hear announcements.

The new service is a result of Metro-North's partnership with CooCoo, a text-scheduling company based on Long Island, N.Y. Train riders text a station-to-station request, such as "Darien to Grand Central," to 266266 and get an immediate response. The service is free, with standard text-messaging rates applying.

Lehmann rides the train every day from his home in New Haven to work in Darien and does not usually have problems with delays, but he understood why the new service would be useful. "I don't think it's a big issue for me, but I can see how texting for information would be helpful to some people."

What do you think of the new service by Metro-North? Do you think it will make your commute easier? Share your thoughts in the comments below.