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Pilot Flex On Demand service available through June 30.
More Aquidneck Island residents can now request a ride on public transit using a smartphone app in what the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority is calling “Flex on Demand.”
The pilot program, which will run through June 30, offers on-demand public transit within designated flex zones. Similar to popular rideshare options, the app provides estimated pick-up times, real-time ride tracking and arrival alerts. The service is ADA-accessible, offers curb-to-curb transportation, and, unlike many rideshare services, has no surge pricing.
“Flex on Demand service will better connect people to work and help employers meet their workforce needs,” said Christopher Durand, RIPTA CEO. “Operationally, [it] gives RIPTA the ability to identify commuting patterns, respond to real-time demand, and partner with employers to deliver service that supports their employees. We’re using this pilot to better understand travel trends and ensure our service is aligned with where and when people need to get to work.”
The 231 Flex Zone, which serves Newport and Middletown, operates Monday through Friday, from 6:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., and Saturdays, from 8:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. The flex zone pilot expansion on Aquidneck Island will expand the zone to include major employers like Raytheon and Naval Undersea Warfare Center, as well as residential properties such as West House, a housing site for people 62 and over.
“Residents of Aquidneck Island, and all Rhode Islanders, deserve a strong public transportation system that truly meets their needs,” said Sen. Lou DiPalma. “This issue really matters for countless individuals and families, and it’s important for the health of our communities and our economy.”
“The program . . . is precisely what the Greater Newport region needs for affordable and convenient transportation,” said Erin Donovan Boyle, president and CEO of the Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce. “This is important not only for commuting to and from work, but also to enable business leaders and employees to travel to and from meetings that take place throughout the work day. This accessibility and convenience will go a long way in keeping more cars off the roadways, eliminate time searching for parking, and helping our community do its part to both cut emissions and reduce burden on our infrastructure.”
Passengers can download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Those without smartphones can schedule rides by calling 401-784-9500, ext. 1220, on weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The cost for a one-way trip is $2, the same as RIPTA’s fixed-route bus service.
All flex vans are equipped with wheelchair-accessible features to accommodate passengers with limited mobility. First-time users can also receive a free one-way trip by entering the promo code “FLEXME” in the app (limit one per account) now through May 31.
First-time riders can also take advantage of “Bus Buddy,” a free program designed to help customers navigate public transit. Whether someone is riding for the first time or learning a new route, the program pairs riders with a RIPTA staff member who provides step-by-step guidance.
“Expanding Flex On Demand service is about connecting people to opportunity whether it’s getting to work, accessing services or staying connected to the community,” said Rep. Terri Cortvriend. “This is a modern, affordable, and accessible transit solution that meets people where they are and reflects RIPTA’s commitment to building a more flexible, resilient transportation system for Rhode Island.”
For more information, including maps of each flex zone, visit ripta.com or call 401-794-9500, ext.2012.