MENU
SEARCHThe pilot, called Flex On Demand, is designed to revolutionize how Rhode Islanders experience public transit.
Similar to popular rideshare options, RIPTA's Flex On Demand offers on-demand public transit within the designated Flex Zone.
Photo: RIPTA
The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) is set to debut a new microtransit pilot program.
The pilot, called Flex On Demand, is designed to revolutionize how Rhode Islanders experience public transit. The innovative service brings the convenience of rideshare apps to public transportation, allowing passengers to book a trip from wherever they are within the service area.
Similar to popular rideshare options, Flex On Demand offers on-demand public transit within the designated Flex Zone.
Passengers can request a ride using a smartphone app, which will provide an estimated pick-up time, track the ride in real time, and send an alert upon arrival. This service is fully ADA-accessible, offers curb-to-curb transportation, and — unlike many rideshare services — has no surge pricing.
"At RIPTA, we are always seeking innovative ways to connect our riders to where they need to go, and Flex On Demand is a prime example of that commitment," said Christopher Durand, interim CEO. "This new pilot program leverages the convenience of modern technology to make public transit more accessible, flexible, and responsive to the needs of our communities in South County. By integrating the benefits of rideshare with the reliability of public transportation, we're providing our riders with more choices and greater control over their travel experience."
The shared service allows customers to easily book their trips on a mobile device by using the Flex On Demand app. The app is available for download from both the Apple iOS App Store and Google Play Store. Passengers who do not have a smartphone can call a Flex reservationist.
Designed for rural and suburban communities, Flex provides convenient, affordable transportation within a community and the opportunity to make seamless connections to other locations in the state.
RIPTA first introduced Flex Service in November 2000 when the Narragansett Flex Zone became operational.
Microtransit is defined as a “technology-enabled service that uses multi-passenger vehicles to provide on-demand services with dynamically generated routing,” by the Federal Transit Administration.
The service will offer free connections to major bus stops and park-and-rides, linking customers to NJ TRANSIT’s fixed-route bus network.
Read More →
Accessible transit isn’t a feature—it’s a responsibility. This whitepaper explores how the Low-Floor Frontrunner is redefining mobility with a breakthrough design that removes barriers, empowers riders, and delivers measurable operational advantages for agencies. Discover why this next generation minibus is setting a new standard for inclusive transportation.
Read More →
LexRide connects key destinations, including Downtown Lexington, the Distillery District, and the Warehouse Block/National Avenue area, making it easier to explore without worrying about parking, traffic, or multiple rideshare trips.
Read More →
Sustainability Partners’ Arnold Albiar discusses how a service-based approach is helping airports and public agencies deploy and manage electric fleets more efficiently.
Read More →
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.
Read More →
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.
Read More →
The partnership aims to accelerate the rollout of electric, high-capacity autonomous shuttles for campuses, airports, transit systems, and more.
Read More →
Veteran transportation innovator to lead coalition as it pushes nationwide expansion of shared autonomous mobility.
Read More →
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.
Read More →
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.
Read More →
