The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT), in partnership with public mobility solutions company Via, recently expanded its on-demand shared transit network to serve nine zones throughout the city.
The program, SmaRT Ride, initially launched in 2018. It uses small shuttle buses, equipped to accommodate people with disabilities, to maneuver residential streets. The service now has 42 vehicles, the largest on-demand microtransit system in the United States.
“We have seen great success with our other SmaRT Ride zones, and we are excited to be able to provide this innovative mobility option to more communities,” Henry Li, SacRT general manager and CEO, said. “This expansion is a huge milestone for SacRT as we continue to explore new transit options and improve access and mobility for our riders.”
Residents can hail a ride via phone call or a smartphone app. Multiple riders can share a vehicle. An algorithm will direct passengers to a virtual bus stop within walking distance for pick up and drop off.
Rides cost $2.50. Residents who are eligible for discount fares will pay $1.25. Youth with the RydeFreeRT sticker or pass and groups of five or more can ride for free.
The Sacramento Transportation Authority awarded SacRT with a $12 million grant to help expand microtransit.