GRTC piloting on-demand service

GRTC has implemented modified schedules (beginning Dec. 20), meaning that select routes will temporarily end service at 11 p.m. or not begin until 6 a.m. because of ongoing labor shortages. But in order to provide another mobility option for customers affected by the temporary service adjustments, the organization is piloting a new on-demand service between bus stops.

GRTC customers now can request one ride per day from one GRTC bus stop to another GRTC bus stop through on-demand service Monday-Friday, from 5 a.m. to 5 a.m. and from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. GRTC is working with multiple partners to provide the service under its zero-fare operations plan.

“We are excited to pilot this new on-demand service to ensure no rider is disadvantaged by GRTC’s temporary service adjustments on some routes,” said GRTC Chief Executive Officer Julie Timm. “Although the bus schedule impacts are modest, we know most riders are commuting to or from work and rely on us to be there on time. This pilot not only preserves service for these late night and early morning commuters, it will also yield data to study in the GRTC service area for demand of an on-demand mobility service.”

The pilot program is projected to end by spring and may be discontinued at any time, according to GRTC officials.

Users ultimately will have two ways to request the “gap” transportation:

• through the Uber mobile app, by requesting a ride from a bus stop to the destination bus stop.

• by calling (804) 358-4782 for help requesting a ride over the phone with Uber, UZURV, or a GRTC small vehicle.

The first option will be the fastest and easiest, once fully phased in during the winter, GRTC officials said. The second option will require longer wait times, and trips should be requested approximately 30 minutes before they are needed. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available upon request.