Norman, Okla., rolls out public transport app, Norman On Demand with the help of Via
Norman On-Demand, a new app-based public transit pilot program, was launched by the city of Norman, Okla., to make public transport more accessible to the community. Services began on Aug. 21, and riders received their first six trips for free.
The city says Norman On-Demand will give better access to safe, affordable public transportation through technology, particularly during evening hours and on Sundays (when other public transit options are limited). The Norman On-Demand app will work mainly with the University of Oklahoma’s (OU) SafeRide program, a program designed to provide safe and free late-night transportation to OU students, with an upgraded user experience that includes real-time updates, efficient routing and enhanced reliability.
“We appreciate the support of Norman City Council and partnership of the University of Oklahoma in the launch of this pilot program,” said Taylor Johnson, transit and parking program manager for the city of Norman. “We are looking forward to the opportunity of testing a new affordable and flexible public transit option for our community members.”
How it works
Powered by the TransitTech provider, Via, Norman On-Demand users can now book a trip at a moment’s notice through the app or by calling a phone number, and Via’s technology will match riders headed in the same direction into shared vehicles. Riders will typically be directed to a nearby “virtual pickup and drop-off stop.” The result is an efficient transit option that combines the affordability and sustainability of the bus with the convenience of a taxi.
How to ride with Norman On-Demand
- Customers can download the “Norman On-Demand” app from the App Store or Google Play Store and follow the sign-up steps.
- Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available upon request.
- Riders will receive an estimated arrival time from their driver and can follow along in real time in the app to see when and where to meet their driver.
- Phone booking.
Service details
Hours
- Monday - Wednesday: 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
- Thursday - Saturday: 7 p.m. to 3 a.m.
- Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Fares
- Norman On-Demand's regular fares are $2 per ride, plus $1 for each additional rider.
- During OU Student SafeRide hours (Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 p.m.- 3 a.m.), students ride for free.
- To be eligible for the free student SafeRides, students must create their account using their official OU email address.
- Student rides outside OU SafeRide hours pay the Norman On-Demand regular fares.
“The city of Norman supporting our SafeRide program is inspiring. It recognizes students as a vital extension between the Norman community and campus,” said Dr. David Surratt, vice president for student affairs and dean of students at OU. “This partnership will help us ensure safe, affordable and sustainable transportation for all students.
History of Norman On-Demand
At the direction of Norman City Council, Norman city staff began exploring options for microtransit to expand the city’s access to flexible, efficient public transportation in 2021. After thorough research and public meeting discussion during fiscal year 2022, funding for a microtransit pilot program was approved in the fiscal year 2023 budget. Following consultation work and requests for proposals, the city of Norman engaged with TransitTech provider Via by contract in June 2023 and finalized a partnership agreement with OU in August 2023.
"SGA could not be more excited for our partnership with the city for the new SafeRide program. One of SGA’s core values is to ensure every student feels safe on campus and I am excited to continue SafeRide as a resource for students, and for them to have access to affordable transportation with Norman On-Demand. I cannot wait to see this partnership in action as this will ensure wellbeing and protection for all students,” said OU Student Government Association President Christopher Firch.
