How Via’s Planning Software Will Help Virginia Transit Agencies

Via and the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation’s (DRPT) new partnership is the product of a study that dates back two years ago.

DRPT recognized the need for transit planning software in its 2021 Transit Equity and Modernization Study, as it is now partnering with Via for access to Via's Remix.

The parties are familiar with each other, having run two successful rural microtransit deployments in the communities of Wise and Gloucester before embarking on this new journey.

Future Impact of Via’s Remix in Virginia

The partnership will equip more than 40 Virginia transit agencies of all sizes and settings with Via’s Remix transit planning software.

Remix’s planning tools are designed to help planners easily visualize transportation access gaps in their networks and evaluate where service optimizations can be made.

“With access to Remix’s transit planning software, transit agencies of all sizes and needs can easily identify gaps in their existing public transportation networks, and understand where and how traditional and innovative transit modes can be implemented – all with the end goal of providing the best service to riders in the most cost-effective way,” said Joshua Panter, Partnerships Lead at Via.

Process of Implementing Via’s Planning Software

Every transit agency will receive the full suite of Remix on-demand and fixed route transit planning tools, including Remix Transit and Remix On-demand Planning, as well as training and ongoing strategic guidance from Via’s team of transit professionals.

The transition is expected to be smooth, as Via outlined its approach to implementing the software for Virginia’s transit agencies.

“We’ve created a robust plan to do this at scale,” Panter said. “In terms of turning this live, agencies receive login information with email instructions and tricks/tips, there will be regular webinars on how to most effectively use Remix, but are tailored for tasks and issues in Virginia.”

Remix Transit is a tool that enables analysis of demographic and transportation data to enable transit planners to plan and adjust public transit networks that ensure reliable, equitable coverage, even in times of service outages and unexpected disruptions.

With the help of Via, DRPT seems poised for another successful partnership with the company.

“DRPT and Via both share a vision to create more equitable transportation access through the use of tech and innovation, and Via looks forward to potentially growing our long-standing relationship with DRPT in the future,” Panter said.