Changes have been made to the Capital District Transportation Authority's (CDTA) FLEX and FLEX+ On Demand services. FLEX+, which launched in January 2024, works as the CDTA’s curb-to-curb service. The CDTA is expanding its FLEX+ services through the summer months with additional stops throughout downtown Albany, N.Y.
CDTA began service changes on June 24, 2024, with new FLEX+ service hours operating from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Additionally, the FLEX+ summer schedule was launched on July 1, 2024, providing a more convenient way for customers to get around downtown Albany. The summer schedule allows for pick up and drop offs at more stations within the area.
CDTA will also be making changes to the FLEX Colonie service area, effective July 1, 2024. FLEX will no longer serve Collins Circle (SUNY) and Patroon Creek Boulevard. Additionally, beginning July 1, there will be only one pick-up and drop-off location at shopping centers.
The service utilizes The Routing Company's (TRC) suite of Pingo products – including on-demand transit service and features such as Transit Connect™.
"We are thrilled to support CDTA in its expansion of FLEX+ service to FLEX+ On-Demand transit service this summer,” said James Cox, CEO, TRC. "The beauty of flexible transit is that it works for everyone – no matter your trip purpose or destination – and it will make getting around Albany much easier for visitors. Responding to the needs of all riders will bolster mobility in Albany and support economic development in the region.”
The original FLEX+ service delivered connections between downtown Albany and the Joseph L. Bruno Rail Station (formerly the Rensselaer Rail Station). The expanded service includes 19 stops in the downtown Albany area to accommodate the tourist season. Designated stops can be located near hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues as the CDTA works with Discover Albany and the Downtown Improvement District to better support tourist mobility needs.
The service expansion utilized funding from the New York State Innovative Mobility Initiative (IMI) to support the initial deployment. IMI funding provides non-Metropolitan Transportation Authority transit authorities, with $10 million in funds to expand service.
