Two DC Tech Companies, TransitScreen And MakeOffices, Are Teaming Up

Two DC-based tech companies are teaming up to make it easier for people in co-working offices to access public transportation.

TransitScreen, which installs screens that show real-time schedules of public transportation and ride-sharing options, has landed a deal with MakeOffices to outfit all nine of its co-working locations.

Founded in Arlington in 2013, TransitScreen has now installed these screens in more than 1,000 buildings. The screens show up to the minute schedules and availability for trains, buses, ride-sharing and bike-sharing options.

The company signed on with JBG in 2014 and AvalonBay last year to put the screens in many of the multifamily buildings each company owns. Last April, TransitScreen unveiled a 4-foot by 6-foot screen in Tysons and it also has one at George Washington University, pictured above. 

After its recent success in apartment buildings, co-working was the logical next step, TransitScreen co-founder Ryan Croft says. 

"When you look at co-working space, it's a unique value proposition," Ryan, pictured above on vacation in Spain where he saw a similar concept on display, says. "It's inherently close to transit in urban areas."  

MakeOffice opened its 40k SF flagship location in Clarendon in June and soon after signed a 45k SF pre-lease at The Wharf's 800 Maine. Ryan says MakeOffices was a natural fit because of the company's innovative nature and the importance they put on being close to transportation options. He hopes this will lead to partnerships with larger international co-working providers like WeWork.

"We certainly see opportunities regionally and nationally with co-working spaces all over the world," Ryan says.

TransitScreen's 20 employees work at the 1776 incubator in Crystal City. Ryan expects the company to continue its rapid growth and he says it will likely move into new office space next year.