Skip to main content

Via boosts transit options in Miami-Dade

Each vehicle accepts three passengers to maintain social distancing
By Ben Spencer October 29, 2020 Read time: 2 mins
Partnership will allow DTPW to utilise real-time data (© Felix Mizioznikov | Dreamstime.com)

Via has partnered with the Miami-Dade Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) to launch Go Connect, an on-demand public transit service.

Via says the Go Connect app, provided by Miami Dade County, will allow users to book an on-demand ride to connect with transit hubs or to travel to nearby destinations. 

Go Connect will roll out in phases within the Dadeland/South Miami area. Users will be able to request trips to and from the Dadeland South, Dadeland North, or South Miami Metrorail stations as well as along the TransitWay, in addition to nearby destinations in the service area.

The service is to shortly expand to additional communities such as the Town of Cutler Bay and the West Kendall area.

DTPW director Alice N. Bravo says: “By thinking outside the box, we are introducing a new on-demand option with near door-to-door rides as an innovative mobility solution for mass transit in Miami-Dade County. This is how we are connecting the dots and continuing to make our County a car-optional community.”

According to Via, the partnership will allow DTPW to utilise real-time data, rider feedback and ride ratings to create a responsive service that meets the changing needs and travel patterns of riders. 

Via insists its advanced algorithms will direct passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within walking distance for pick-up and drop-off, allowing shared trips without lengthy detours. 

As part of the deployment, each vehicle has reduced its capacity from six to three passengers to comply with social distancing guidelines issued by Miami-Dade County and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Additionally, riders and drivers will also be required to wear a face covering while on board.

The service will be available from Monday to Friday between 6:30 am and 7.00 pm. It will be free for an introductory period before increasing to $2.25 for each trip.

It will offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and those without a smartphone can book a ride online.

Related Content

  • Uber enlists MV Transportation drivers to pick up disabled passengers
    November 23, 2018
    Uber is adding drivers from a specialist company to its app in a bid to provide more wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAV) to disabled passengers in the US. MV Transportation specialises in providing on-demand transportation to people with disabilities and older passengers. Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi says there are not enough drivers on its platform who use WAVs. He believes the collaboration will allow riders in wheelchairs to be picked up within 15 minutes on average for trips in New York City, Bosto
  • Vancouver's metro transport promotes alternatives to driving
    January 26, 2012
    David Crawford looks at Vancouver and the legacy of a Olympic transport success
  • Singapore plans changes to transit system
    June 13, 2018
    Singapore has the third-highest population density in the world and the numbers are continuing to grow. The government knows that transit is vital: David Crawford investigates the city state’s Smart Nation strategy. Transport is the most important of the five domains identified as the pillars of Singapore's far-reaching Smart Nation strategy, launched in November 2014 by prime minister Lee Hsien Loong with the aim of reaching fulfilment by 2024. Roads account for 12% of the island republic's 719km2 land ar
  • Shotl runs Verona on-demand bus service
    August 15, 2024
    App-based programme has replaced four fixed-route evening lines with flexible travel