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Microtransit Improves Access And Equity In Public Transportation

Wednesday, June 28, 2023

Categories: Blog

App mockup of the microtransit feature on a phoneHave you ever wondered how CATA plans its fixed-route services and chooses the location of bus stops? Generally, it is based on population density: Fixed routes are intended to make catching the bus as easy as possible for the greatest number of travelers. Obviously, not everyone lives near a bus stop, particularly in neighborhoods with lower population density, where residences are more separated.

That’s where microtransit fills the gap. By connecting people to public transportation services no matter where they live, microtransit helps overcome obstacles and makes access to public transit more equitable.

Think “Uber meets CATA” but with lower costs than those associated with hiring a ridesharing service.

And much like Uber or Lyft, CATA microtransit will operate through a smartphone app that allows riders to see and book the seamless transit connections that will get them to their destination.

Microtransit is not an entirely new concept. CATA’s advanced-reservation, curb-to-curb paratransit services and Redi-Ride services in Mason, Meridian and Delhi townships are forms of microtransit that use smaller, dedicated vehicles to help qualified riders get from place to place. But expanding how CATA utilizes microtransit to connect the community even further promises to deliver significant benefits for area residents in the near future.

This content has been published in the 2023 Community Report.

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