DemandTrans Teams with Nashville MTA to Integrate MOD Technology in Multiple Pilots

DemandTrans and the Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority have signed an agreement to provide technology and support to improve and convert existing MTA vehicles to a real‐time, demand‐responsive service model. Solutions will include ADA-eligible vehicles, as well as transportation network companies and taxi services.

“This is a transformative time for the transit industry, and our team is grateful to have the opportunity to lend our experience and technology to advance Nashville MTA’s progressive transportation agenda,” said DemandTrans Chairman John E. Michel. “There is so much we can do through combining new technology and business models to deliver optimal services to meet evolving needs.”

DemandTrans is working closely with the MTA to provide solutions for both ADA-eligible and general public transit, such as:

• Seamless, intermodal/multimodal trip planning integration across multiple modes of travel (the Switch MaaS application)
• Improved access to existing demand responsive services (TNCs, taxi services and others) for non‐banked individuals, individuals without access to smart phones, and individuals with mobility‐related or cognitive disabilities
• Organizing partnerships between the agency and mobility‐on‐demand service/technology providers that align with the Federal Transit Administration guidelines and are based on lessons learned to similar pilots throughout the United States
• Solutions to convert existing MTA vehicles to real‐time, demand‐responsive services (for specific geographic zones, paratransit services and hybrid fixed/flexible services).

“We’re looking forward to tracking how the range of MOD solutions we are implementing will provide additional transportation options to all customers while connecting more homes and businesses to the broader transit network,” said Nashville MTA Director of Service Quality Dan Freudberg. “Helping riders to move smarter and more easily through accessible public transportation options is something we are excited to see. This partnership is an important step in helping us bring that vision to life for those living in, working in, and visiting Nashville and Middle Tennessee.”

Dr. Charlotte Frei, project manager for DemandTrans added, “We see a trend of increasing customer expectations across all industries, and understanding those behavioral changes is at the heart of demand responsive service planning and implementation. We are also working to ensure that any who wish to participate in MOD- as an operator or customer, including those with special needs — are included.”