LUNCH AND LEARN:  An Introduction to Microtransit

Learn more about the need for public transportation in the Hudson Valley and how demand-response microtransit could make transportation available to more people, in more places, more often.

Microtransit is an emerging approach to transit that provides on-demand service to riders. While details may differ between microtransit systems, they are generally characterized by a fleet of vehicles responding to ride requests within a defined service area. These vehicles are commonly smaller than typical fixed-route buses. Microtransit systems rely on technology to provide a user-friendly interface for requesting rides and ensure that routes and pickups are carried out efficiently in a shared vehicle. Using algorithms and a set of adjustable parameters, the system responds to ride requests as they are received through smartphone apps and telephone calls. The system adaptively plans routes, pickups, and drop-offs anywhere within the geographic service area.