The advent of small scale, flexible transit service – also known as microtransit – is shaping the way travelers get around. Recently launched on-demand microtransit programs from Riverside County transit providers have riders excited – and for good reason. With a few taps of a smartphone app or a short phone call, riders can plan and book rides to bus stops, schools, local businesses, doctor appointments, and other popular destinations. These rides are often less expensive than common ride-hailing apps allowing for residents from underserved communities to also use the service.

GoMicro, the popular on-demand microtransit service from Riverside Transit Agency (RTA), offers shared rides in the Hemet-San Jacinto microtransit zone that overlays existing RTA fixed routes. The GoMicro service made its much-anticipated debut in December 2022, providing nearly 3,000 rides in its first 30 days of service. Booking a ride is as easy as downloading the RTA GoMicro Transit App, creating an account, and requesting a pickup. Trips can also be booked through the GoMicro webpage or by calling 951-633-2629. GoMicro service operates Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

GoMicro’s surging popularity has prompted the need for additional funding to extend the service. Earlier this year, RCTC worked closely with RTA to assemble a grant application for the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Regional Early Action Planning (REAP 2.0) grants program. As a result of the joint effort, a $2,378,635 grant was awarded that will allow RTA to extend the pilot program an additional 12 months and to implement similar on-demand microtransit service in other areas in the region.

In the sunny Coachella Valley, SunLine Transit Agency’s microtransit service – SunRide – has also proven to be a popular option amongst riders. The on-demand service launched in two Coachella Valley zones and has recently expanded service to seven zones that includes Cathedral City, Coachella, Desert Hot Springs-Desert Edge, Indio, Mecca-North Shore, Palm Desert, and Palm Springs. SunRide connects riders to SunLine’s fixed route network and serves more than 100 destinations that include John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital, DMV, schools, parks, and shopping centers. Riders can plan, book, and keep track of trips through the official SunRide mobile app or by calling SunRide Customer Service at 760-343-3450. The service is currently available Monday through Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Through these exciting new transit services, RTA, SunLine, and agency partners are focused on offering expanded mobility solutions to meet the diverse needs of Riverside County’s growing population.