Transdev and SamTrans launch new Ride Plus micro-transit service

Credit: Transdev

Transdev has announced, in collaboration with the San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans), that it has introduced a new micro-transit service, called Ride Plus, aimed at revolutionising transportation in the East Palo Alto and Half Moon Bay regions. This on-demand service addresses the long standing challenge of limited access to fixed bus routes in these areas.

To ensure a seamless experience for passengers, Transdev will be responsible for managing all aspects of the micro-transit operation, including vehicle fleet, staff, safety measures, maintenance and the customer service call centre. This solution is supported by the advanced technology of the Cityway innovation division, which has already proven successful in over 150 deployments worldwide.

Passengers can easily access and utilise the curb-to-curb micro-transit service through the SamTrans Ride Plus mobile app. The app provides all necessary information and features, including the option to choose from different payment modes such as cash, Clipper Card, or bus pass.

“We are excited to operate this new on-demand service and leverage our proven Microtransit Management Solutions technology, which has been developed by our Innovation Division, Cityway,” said Chloe Spano, Vice President Business Development & Innovation for Cityway by Transdev. “The technology has had proven success through more than 150 deployments globally and we look forward to the positive impact it will have on our new SamTrans passengers.”

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Cityway’s experience with integrated mobility will benefit this project, ensuring that the micro-transit service is fully integrated with SamTrans’ fixed route system. The on-demand service offers features like scheduled and real-time bus integration times. In addition, the integration with the fixed-route scheduling ensures the service feeds into the existing SamTrans system to complement it – not compete with it.

April Chan, CEO of SamTrans, said: “These areas [Half Moon Bay, East Palo Alto and the Belle Haven neighborhood of Menlo Park] have historically been difficult to serve with fixed-route bus lines, but with this new affordable and eco-friendly transit option, we’re able to advance transportation equity and provide the benefits of transit to those who need it most.”

Mark Elias, Transdev‘s Regional Vice President for the Northwest region, said: “As a national mobility solutions provider, Transdev is able to bring innovative operations tools to help improve efficiencies and focus on consistent, positive customer experiences for the passengers. At the end of day, it’s about bringing safe, efficient, and reliable service to our passengers.”