ChiTEXT, Chicago’s Short Message Service (SMS) Text Messaging application, has been expanded to include more options.  Not only can users have information sent directly to their mobile phone for commonly asked questions, but they can now request a city service and opt-in for various city alerts.

Enhanced ChiTEXT features include the following... 

• Self-service mobile phone functionality

• Additional channel to request City Services, information and events
  
• Increased access to check status of Service Requests
• Decreased 311 Call Center call volume and customer wait times
• Constituent satisfaction

Users can select an option from a menu of information and receive responses in the form of text messages from the City of Chicago.  To begin, users can text the command keyword CHICAGO to short code 311311.  The requester will receive an automated response with a menu offering five (5) possible options:

1. OPTION A: CONTACT INFORMATION (government agency, public utility, etc.)                       
2. OPTION B: LOCATION SEARCH (ward/alderman, police beat/district information)     
3. OPTION C: TOWED/RELOCATED VEHICLE (find a towed or relocated vehicle)
4. OPTION D: CITY ALERTS (Opt-In to receive preferred city information alerts)
5. OPTION E: REQUEST SERVICES (request a city service from a select list)

• How To Use ChiTEXT Instructions provide step-by-step instructions.

• The ChiTEXT video below provides an audio and visual overview.