Groove On-Demand, a shared ride option in Memphis, Tenn., has surpassed 100,000 rides since its inception in February 2021.
Groove On-Demand was introduced as a joint initiative between Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA), the Memphis Medical District Collaborative, and the Downtown Memphis Commission, with the goal of using technology to expand the community’s access to jobs, commercial, and medical opportunities. The service helps Memphis achieve a ‘Downtown for Everyone’ vision by providing safe, reliable mobility for seniors, students, commuters, riders with disabilities and visitors alike.
Groove On-Demand allows anyone in the service zone to book an on-demand shared ride through the Groove On-Demand app or by phone. The service is powered by Via’s software, which uses intelligent algorithms to match riders headed in the same direction into one vehicle for quick, efficient trips.
New data highlights how Groove On-Demand is helping Memphis achieve strides in social equity and environmental sustainability:
- Groove has enabled access to 93 percent more of the city's jobs in the service area within 30 minutes than previously accessible with just fixed line transit.
- 71 percent of riders do not have a car, and most trips are to and from essential destinations, including Kroger, MATA stations and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
- Nearly 45 percent of Groove On-Demand rides replace rides that were previously served by private vehicles, and the service reduces emissions by about 47 percent overall.
As Groove On-Demand evolves, the service continues to prioritize a safe, reliable experience for riders and drivers, evidenced by an average ride rating of 4.8 out of five stars and investments in driver safety training programs.
Groove On-Demand is available Monday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Rides are $1.25, or $0.50 for riders with MATA-issued senior or disability IDs and Shelby County student IDs. Wheelchair accessible vehicles are available upon request.
