Putnam County and TransitTech provider Via today launched the public transit service called Putnam On-Demand, which they say will bring flexible, app-based public transit in the Patterson, Southeast, and Carmel area.
Founded in 2012, Via is headquartered in New York City. It works with its partners to lower the costs of public transit while providing transportation options that rival the convenience of a personal car while reducing the environmental impact. Via promotes itself is a market leader that combines software innovation with service and operational expertise. It currently provides its technology in 700 communities and more than 35 countries. The company says it has provided more than 125 million rides.
Under Putnam On-Demand, residents can book on-demand rides for $2.50 or less and will receive door-to-door service versus using traditional schedules or having to go to bus stops. Upon booking a ride, Via’s technology matches riders headed in the same direction into minivans – creating efficiencies through shared trips. Multiple vehicles in the new micro transit fleet will also be wheelchair accessible.
As an inducement to encourage people to sign up for a Putnam On-Demand app that can be used to book rides, people are being offered their first two rides free through June 12.
The program can be used to reach destinations such as Metro-North stations, local bus stops, jobs, health care, shopping, restaurants and more. Putnam On-Demand is designed to complement and expand the county’s existing public transit network.
“Access to public transportation traditionally has been a challenge in a county like ours that is dominated by suburban communities, narrow, winding local roads, and a lack of major metro areas,” said Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne. “This is a creative, accessible solution for residents that we couldn’t be more excited to launch.”
“Via is proud to partner with Putnam County to bring a new era of public transit to this community,” said Mike Vaccarino, senior vice president of partnerships at Via. “Putnam County’s decision to adopt microtransit underscores its commitment to opening new pathways and creating a more connected future for its residents.”
The arrival of Putnam On-Demand comes at the same time that the PART Route 3 and PART paratransit service are being discontinued due to low ridership and inefficiency. The county is working closely with riders to ensure a smooth transition to the new transit option.
Rides are available under Putnam On-Demand Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
