Indiana's METS Launches Microtransit Program

Indiana's Metropolitan Evansville Transit System (METS) announced the launch of METS Micro, an on-demand, app-based public transit pilot service in partnership with Via, the Evansville Metropolitan Planning Organization (Evansville MPO), the Toyota Mobility Foundation (TMF), and Energy Systems Network (ESN).

METS Micro will officially launch on Nov. 28 with the goal of using the software to expand access to transportation in Evansville.

METS Micro will allow anyone within a designated service zone in southeast Evansville to book an on-demand ride through the METS Micro app.

How METS Micro Works

Upon booking a ride, Via’s algorithms match riders headed in the same direction into one shared vehicle to create shared trips. This model provides a transit option designed to extend the reach of METS’ existing offerings by providing coverage in areas where fixed-route buses cannot reach.

METS Micro will be available Monday to Saturday from 6:15 a.m. to 12 a.m. and on Sundays from 6:15 a.m. to 6 p.m. Rides will cost $2. The fleet will include two wheelchair-accessible Toyota Sienna minivans.

“The launch of METS Micro stands as a testament to the hard work, innovation, and dedication of our entire team," said Evansville Mayor Lloyd Winnecke. "Collaborating with Via and benefiting from the generous support of Toyota Mobility Foundation and Energy Systems Network, we're not just enhancing our transit system — we're envisioning a brighter, more connected future for Evansville.”

Contributions to METS Micro

METS Micro is part of Toyota Mobility Foundation’s Together in Motion initiative, a program established in collaboration with Energy Systems Network (ESN) and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC).

"The METS Micro pilot in Evansville exemplifies the power of collaboration between local and state public and private entities, setting the stage for achieving greater equity in transportation access," said Ryan Klem, director of Programs at the Toyota Mobility Foundation. “Our hope is that the learnings from this pilot can help enhance the quality of life and work for the people of Evansville and might serve as an example for other cities to emulate in the future.”

Additional key contributions came from partner ESN, who purchased two Toyota Sienna minivans for the pilot using IEDC grant funds. ESN partnered with BraunAbility and Model1 to customize them to be wheelchair accessible. ESN acquired the vehicles through another local business, Evansville-based Toyota dealer Kenny Kent.