First Transit is enhancing mobility options by forming a partnership with Lyft to pilot on-demand wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Using the Lyft app, individuals who use a fixed-frame or non-collapsible wheelchair can request a WAV with a ramp. Now launching in San Francisco and Los Angeles, the Lyft app allows passengers with accessibility needs to enable Access Mode.

When the Access Mode is enabled, passengers may request a WAV that is specially outfitted to accommodate fixed-frame or non-collapsible wheelchairs. The vehicles — 2019 Toyota Siennas — are operated by certified drivers provided by First Transit and will be available exclusively for Lyft app WAV ride requests, according to Lyft's website. 

“This partnership with Lyft allows us to expand into new mobility offerings with Lyft beyond the Boston and Toronto markets.” said Justin Pate, sr. VP, global business development and marketing, for First Transit. “Our team is looking forward to offering additional mobility options to residents of San Francisco and Los Angeles.”

First Transit will provide the WAVs, operational support, maintenance, and drivers for the partnership.