St. Louis Metro launches new on-demand service
A new on-demand transit service is coming to the St. Louis region beginning June 29 thanks to a partnership between St. Louis Metro Transit and Via.
The new service, called Via Metro STL, will be introduced in two areas – in southwest St. Louis County including Fenton and Valley Park, and in North St. Louis County.
This new service allows riders to hail a vehicle directly from their smartphone using the Via app, and travel to any location within the service area during operating hours.
Riders will not be restricted to having trips connect to Metro Transit — they can use the Via Metro STL service to get from home directly to the grocery store, or anywhere else in the service areas.
Via Metro STL is a shared-ride service, and Via’s technology seamlessly matches passengers headed in the same direction to provide quick and efficient trips, without lengthy detours or inconvenient schedules.
Rides are free through the end of August and will be $2 per ride starting in September. Customers can book a ride with the Via app or call 636.251.3328
How to ride
- Create an account. Download Via from the App Store or Google Play store and follow the simple sign-up steps. If customers don’t have a smartphone, they can call 636.251.3328 to set up a ride.
- Request a ride. Enter the pickup and drop-off addresses and choose the ride option that works best.
- Meet the driver. Check the app and walk a short distance to the pickup spot.
As part of St. Louis Metro’s commitment to providing safe transit services during the COVID-19 crisis, riders will be required to wear a face covering during the entire trip. All drivers are also required to wear masks.
Service is offered in South St. Louis County in Fenton and Valley Park area seven days a week from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Shrewsbury-Lansdowne I-44 MetroLink Station is included in this area for easy access to the St. Louis Metro system.
Service will be available in North St. Louis County area seven days a week from 11:30 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. Via Metro STL service is being offered in North St. Louis County at these times to provide convenient options during off-peak hours when bus service is limited or has ended. The Riverview Transit Center is included in this service area.
Via Metro STL is a 12-month pilot program to explore on-demand transportation options as part of Metro Transit’s services.