Capital Metro Transportation Authority (CapMetro) is collaborating with Spare Labs to replace its paratransit management system with Spare's modern ADA paratransit platform. The new platform launched on Oct. 1.
"In our ongoing commitment to our customers, it’s important that we leverage innovative technologies to move people, especially our paratransit riders, safely and conveniently. There have been long-standing challenges in delivering paratransit service that has created a divide between available services and the contemporary needs of our riders. With this collaboration, we're bridging that gap and reaffirming our dedication to accessibility," said Dottie Watkins, president and CEO of CapMetro.
The platform allows CapMetro riders to enjoy real-time notifications about their upcoming journeys, allowing them to plan effectively and stay informed. Riders can receive trip notifications via voice, text, email or app and have the convenience of hands-free boarding with an enrolled photo ID and credit card for auto-pay fares. On the other hand, dispatchers can now closely monitor day-to-day operations, proactively address challenges and take measures to fill scheduling gaps or reduce cancellations.
"We are seeing more and more innovative agencies like CapMetro deploy modern ADA paratransit systems. We’re thrilled to partner with CapMetro to deliver one of the largest automated ADA paratransit systems worldwide,” said Kristoffer Vik Hansen, CEO and co-founder of Spare. “Forward-thinking agencies like CapMetro exemplify how transit providers can evolve to meet rider’s modern expectations. Our mission has always been to make every ride possible and together with CapMetro, we're realizing that vision on a grand scale."
Another significant first for CapMetro, with Spare's technology, is integrating eligibility management directly into reservations, scheduling and dispatch management. The innovation means digitizing the eligibility process.
“The collaboration with Spare represents more than an upgrade; it’s a reimagining of how we serve our ADA paratransit riders,” said Vice President of Demand Response and Innovative Mobility at CapMetro Chad Ballentine. "We're proud this innovation will address the current and future requirements of Austin's paratransit community, laying the groundwork for further enhancements."
