Metra will soon unveil a new alert system for riders, but some may need to make a change to see them

Getting alerts about Metra delays, construction and upcoming train arrivals will soon be easier for riders. Metra is launching a new alert system Thursday that will allow customers to receive real-time train information by email or text. The new system follows upgrades to Metra’s GPS tracking and passenger information systems, which track train movement and on-time performance, power onboard and platform announcements, and provide information on digital signs, according to the transit agency. Riders can sign up at MetraTracker.com beginning Thursday by creating an account and selecting the alerts they want to receive. There will be two types of alerts: service alerts and prediction alerts. For service alerts, customers can choose the days and times they want to receive notifications and choose text, email or both. Separate alerts must be created for different trips, such as morning and evening commutes. For prediction alerts, customers select their line, origin and desti