Richmond launches electric, on-demand public transit service to expand transportation access in underserved neighborhoods
The city of Richmond, Calif., in partnership with Via, will launch its first on-demand public shuttle service April 25, expanding access to efficient, equitable and sustainable transportation in communities, particularly in neighborhoods that are underserved by other mobility options.
Richmond Moves’ goal is to fill access gaps in the transportation ecosystem, which has historically lacked intra-city transit options and has been challenged by heavily polluted air. The service will enable residents to easily connect with key transit hubs — such as Amtrak and Bay Area Rapid Transit stations and the Ferry Terminal — without a private car. To underscore the city’s commitment to sustainability, the fleet will include all plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, reducing energy consumption.
Richmond Moves will be powered by Via. Via’s intelligent algorithm allows riders to book an on-demand ride to a nearby transit hub, and then directs them to a virtual bus stop within a short walking distance. Riders enjoy quick, efficient shared trips that provide more flexibility than traditional transportation options with fixed routes and schedules.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Richmond to launch an electric, on-demand transportation service. Richmond Moves is designed to provide access to opportunities for the community while expanding use of existing public transit,” said Dillon Twombly, chief revenue officer, Via. “Tech-enabled, sustainable and equitable networks like this are the future of public transit.”
Richmond Moves is funded by the Clean Mobility Options (CMO) Voucher Pilot Program and is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide initiative putting billions of cap-and-trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy and improving public health and the environment, particularly in disadvantaged communities. CMO is administered by CALSTART, Shared-Use Mobility Center and Local Government Commission.
“Connecting people to where they need to go, in an environmentally responsible manner, has long been a high priority for the city of Richmond and my office,” said Richmond Mayor Tom Butt. “Whether folks are visiting our beautiful parks or historic neighborhoods, traveling to BART or the Ferry Terminal, or engaging with other community members at the Richmond Civic Center, we want to make that as accessible and affordable as possible – and this is a step in the right direction.”
Rides will be able to be booked with the free Richmond Moves app or by calling. The service will operate Monday - Friday from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Rides will cost $2 and will be free for students and seniors.
