RELATED: TNC partnerships boost transit's mobility offerings, save money
First Transit partners with Lyft for wheelchair accessible vehicles
Now launching in San Francisco and Los Angeles, the Lyft app allows passengers with accessibility needs to enable Access Mode.

Now launching in San Francisco and Los Angeles, the Lyft app allows passengers with accessibility needs to enable Access Mode.
Lyft

Now launching in San Francisco and Los Angeles, the Lyft app allows passengers with accessibility needs to enable Access Mode.
Lyft
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.
More Paratransit

Biz Briefs: RIPTA Unveils New Frontrunners, Clevland RTA Adds New Siemens, and More
In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at recent news from Siemens, Prevost, Dodge, and more partnerships making headlines across the transportation sector.
Read More →
King County Metro Makes ADA Paratransit Easier to Navigate
METRO's Innovative Solutions Award winner replaces complex service-area descriptions with an accessible, interactive map that puts paratransit information directly in customers’ hands.
Read More →
Jacksonville’s NAVI Project Charts a New Course for Autonomous Public Transportation
Through its NAVI program, JTA is showing how autonomous vehicles, intelligent infrastructure, and coordinated operations can work together to deliver everyday public transportation.
Read More →Driving Smarter Paratransit
John Hanlon shares how AlphaRoute is leveraging AI-powered technology to help paratransit providers optimize operations, support frontline staff, and enhance the rider experience.
Read More →
METRO Magazine Announces 2026 Innovative Solutions Awards Winners
Projects Recognized for Advancing Mobility Through Technology, Accessibility, Workforce Innovation, and Operational Excellence
Read More →
Biz Briefs: STV teams with Amtrak, Motorcoach Operators Boost Fleet and Land Contracts, and More
From manufacturers and suppliers to transit agencies and motorcoach operators, these updates offer a snapshot of the projects, partnerships and business moves driving the industry forward.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: Masabi Teams with St. Louis Metro and More
In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at recent news from Transdev, Hitachi, and more partnerships making headlines across the transportation sector.
Read More →
New York MTA Leverages Zoning Program to Advance Station Accessibility
Accessibility enhancements at Nevins St Station will be financed through a development agreement tied to the MTA's Zoning for Accessibility initiative.
Read More →
Reinventing Fleet Maintenance with Real-time Visibility and AI
Transit leaders need to know what needs fixing, where to look, who is responsible, when work is completed, and what it costs without having to chase information across disconnected systems.
Read More →
SamTrans Sets Priorities for Potential Connect Bay Area Revenue
The board-approved framework allocates future funding to maintaining service, rider improvements, equity initiatives, and infrastructure repairs.
Read More →