Via, developer of on-demand shared transit solutions, launched a pilot program that provides first-and-last mile solutions for public transportation in Los Angeles County. Image: Via
2 min to read
Via, developer of on-demand shared transit solutions, launched a pilot program that provides first-and-last mile solutions for public transportation in Los Angeles County. Image: Via
Via, developer of on-demand shared transit solutions, and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro), launched a pilot program that provides first-and-last mile solutions for public transportation in Los Angeles County.
The service utilizes Via’s algorithm to dynamically route shared vehicles to-and-from three Metro stations – Compton (Artesia), El Monte and North Hollywood. The value of the year-long pilot between Via and Metro is $2.5M, which is funded in part by a $1.35M grant from the Federal Transit Administration.
Ad Loading...
Using the Via app, or a dedicated phone line for users without access to a smartphone, passengers in the three pilot zones will select their pickup and drop-off locations and confirm their ride. All trips must start or end at the Metro station in the zone.
Using the Via app, or a dedicated phone line for users without access to a smartphone, passengers in the three pilot zones will select their pickup and drop-off locations and confirm their ride. Image: Via
Via’s smart algorithm enables multiple riders to seamlessly share a single vehicle by directing passengers to a nearby corner — a virtual bus stop — allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours that take riders out of their way. This enables Via’s system to transport a high volume of passengers while using a fraction of the number of vehicles utilized by taxis or on-demand car services.
A standard trip costs just $1.75 for riders with a TAP card. LIFE participants — Metro’s low-income fare subsidy program — will ride for free. Those who do not provide a TAP number during account registration will ride for $3.75.
Metro designed the pilot to explore how dynamic, on-demand transportation technology can solve a range of mobility challenges. The main goal of the pilot is to extend the benefits of traditional on-demand services to a wider audience by making the service affordable, equitable and accessible.
Via accepts by credit, debit or pre-paid cards for unbanked riders. Rides can be booked through Via’s app or call center for riders without smartphones, also providing translation services for non-English speakers. Passengers with additional mobility needs will be able to request an accessible vehicle.
The expanded service builds on Pace’s growing On Demand network and is intended to improve access to destinations such as medical appointments, schools, shopping, employment centers and connections to the regional transit system.
An important part of the authority’s NextGen Bus Network, MARTA Reach will bring transit service directly to the rider’s location and offer a seamless link to the broader rail and bus system.
In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at HDR, NCTD, STV, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.
The service is a flexible, reservation-based transit service designed to close the first- and last-mile gaps and connect riders to employment for just $5 per day.
Transit agencies depend on safe, reliable vehicles to deliver consistent service. This eBook examines how next-generation fleet software helps agencies move from reactive processes to proactive operations through automated maintenance, real-time safety insights, and integrated data. Learn how fleets are improving uptime, safety outcomes, and operational efficiency.
In a recent episode of METROspectives, LYT CEO Timothy Menard discusses how artificial intelligence, cloud connectivity, and real-time data are transforming traffic management, boosting bus reliability, and enabling system-wide transit optimization across cities.
