Connecticut launches micro-transit pilot to enhance accessibility

Credit: Connecticut Department of Transportation

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has announced that it is launching a micro-transit pilot programme to enhance transportation accessibility. Governor Ned Lamont and Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto have announced this initiative, which will introduce on-demand micro-transit services in select communities across the state.

Micro-transit offers flexible and user-friendly transportation solutions, enabling commuters to request and schedule rides within designated service areas through smartphone apps or telephone services. The pilot programme, spanning two years with potential extensions, aims to mitigate transportation challenges and improve connectivity, particularly in areas lacking robust transit infrastructure.

“This new programme will help seniors and people with disabilities travel in parts of our state that have historically been underserved by public transportation,” Governor Lamont said. “These services allow people to use an app or phone number to request and schedule a ride within designated areas, connecting them to restaurants, entertainment, rail stations, airports and critical services.”

Paris metro stations equipped with accessible real-time information panels

“Micro-transit brings public transportation to communities that have lacked fixed route bus service,” Commissioner Eucalitto said. “Thank you to Governor Ned Lamont and the state legislature for the continued investment in high-quality public transportation that eliminates gaps between communities and increases access and mobility throughout our state.”

The roll-out of micro-transit services will occur gradually across different regions:

• 26 March 2024: Norwalk Transit District: Serving Norwalk
• 1 April 2024: Greater Hartford Transit: Serving Enfield and portions of East Windsor, Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): Serving Groton, New London, and Valley Transit District: Serving Ansonia Train Station, Derby, and Shelton
• 6 April 2024: Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): Stonington HOP
• 8 April 2024: Milford Transit: Serving Milford
• 22 April 2024: Greater Bridgeport Transit: Serving Trumbull
• 6 May 2024: Southeast Area Transit (SEAT): New London Smart, Serving Waterford
• 28 May 2024: River Valley Transit (Estuary Transit): Serving Madison, Guilford, and portions of East Hampton and Middletown
• 1 July 2024: City of Stamford: Serving a five-mile boundary within the city
• 30 July 2024: City of New Haven: Serving Hill, West River, Dwight, Edgewood, Beaver Hills, and West Rock neighbourhoods.

The initiative builds upon existing micro-transit services in Connecticut, offering greater accessibility and convenience for all residents.