VIA Metropolitan Transit’s (VIA) VIA Link service is expanding to include a South Zone, opening Aug. 8.
This is the third VIA Link zone to open since the on-demand transit option was introduced in 2019 with a Northeast Zone and grew in 2021 with a Northwest Zone.
VIA Link expansion is part of VIA’s Keep SA Moving plan, approved by voters in 2020. The app-based service provides frequent, reliable trip options in areas where traditional bus service and vehicles are not efficient.
The new VIA Link zone connects popular destinations throughout 12.52-square miles, including VIA’s Madla Transit Center, Palo Alto College, Texas A&M University-San Antonio, South San High School, South Park Mall, shopping and medical centers and Toyota Manufacturing – which is also a partner in developing the South Zone service.
A free community event to celebrate the VIA Link South Zone opening is set for Aug. 6, at the South Park Mall Center Court (near Macy’s). Guests can learn about using VIA Link, tour a VIA Link van, visit with VIA’s mascot, Buster the Bus, and download the free app for prizes.
“Expanding VIA Link service to San Antonio’s South Side was the natural next step in realizing the Keep SA Moving plan promise to move more people faster and farther, particularly in areas where innovation is needed to deliver modern transit solutions,” said VIA President/CEO Jeffrey C. Arndt. “The South Zone is home to major education, employment and residential centers that are helping to drive growth for our city and region and represent VIA’s mission to connect our community to opportunity.”
VIA Link passengers can travel anywhere in the zone and connect directly to bus routes at designated transfer points to travel outside the zone. The flexibility provides better frequency, decreases travel times, minimizes walking distances and offers more pick-up and drop-off locations. Customers are usually picked up within 20 minutes of booking and can track and rate their rides through the free app. VIA Link vans are fully accessible and can accommodate wheelchairs and bicycles upon request.
VIA Link South service is available seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Customers can book a ride through the VIA Link app, online or by calling and pay using the VIA goMobile+ app, a VIA transit pass or cash. The Transit app also offers options to book complete trips, including a connecting bus or BCycle trip.
