SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - The Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) has launched a shared-use mobility program. SacRT Flex is a limited subsidized neighborhood shuttle service for a limited group of qualified riders, including seniors (age 62 and older), low-income individuals and individuals with disabilities.  

SacRT Flex, a new program operated by Via, officially started service on Jan. 2. SacRT Flex is a limited shared-use service designed to provide greater accessibility and mobility for riders with the greatest transportation needs. During the soft launch phase, eligible riders are invited to test the new service and familiarize themselves with its features. 

“This new program, although not a replacement for SmaRT Ride, ensures that we continue to meet the mobility needs of our community while maintaining fiscal responsibility and optimizing resources,” said SacRT General Manager/CEO Henry Li. “We are excited to introduce a program that prioritizes accessibility and convenience for those who need it most.” 

SacRT Flex is operated by Via, the same vendor responsible for scheduling the SmaRT Ride service. For the SacRT Flex program, Via manages the app, schedules the trips, maintains the vehicles, provides the drivers and collects the fare revenue, ensuring a seamless experience for riders. SacRT Flex is being funded by Measure A as a pilot for the next 18 months. Measure A is a Sacramento County program that funds transportation projects and services through a half-cent sales tax.  

SacRT Flex operating hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Fridays (excluding most holidays). SacRT Flex will operate in the same nine zones as SmaRT Ride: Citrus Heights-Antelope-Orangevale, Arden-Carmichael, Downtown-Midtown, Elk Grove, Florin-Gerber, Folsom, Franklin-South Sacramento, Natomas-North Sacramento and Rancho Cordova. 

Ride requests must be booked at least 24 hours in advance (up to two days in advance) using Via’s SacRT Flex app or by phone. Same-day requests are currently not available. Cost is $2.50 per trip for eligible riders and adult companions, and free for children riding with parents. 

To ride Via’s SacRT Flex service, individuals must first complete an eligibility process. Applications can be submitted online at sacrt.com/applyflex. Via’s SacRT Flex app is also available to download on Google Play and the App Store.  

For more information about SacRT Flex, including application details, service zones, and a full list of features, visit sacrt.com/flex, email [email protected] or call 916-321-BUSS (2877).