M is for Micro transit
The M Transit recently received its first major upgrade in more than a decade! As part of this upgrade, the city of Montgomery is implementing a new service with micro transits!
The M’s micro transit system is a new on-demand ride sharing service. In its beginning phases, three micro transit vehicles will travel around downtown Montgomery to carry riders to and from the Montgomery Regional Airport. The goal is to eventually cover all parts of Montgomery and increase frequency to lower wait times. Similar to other ride sharing services, like Uber or Lyft, riders will be able to use an app to request on-demand pickup from a micro transit vehicle.
What are Micro Transits?
Micro transits, also known as micro mobility or on-demand transit, refer to small-scale transportation services that provide efficient and flexible rides within a local area. In Montgomery, this system will use small 20-passenger shuttle buses, and leverage advanced technology platforms to enable on-demand booking, routing optimization, and dynamic scheduling. The M’s micro transits are designed to complement the existing fixed route public transit systems by offering first-mile and last-mile connections, filling gaps in the transportation network, and serving areas with low population density.
Some benefits of using the M’s micro transit system will include:
Enhanced Accessibility: The M’s micro transits will address the problem of limited transportation options in areas where the M’s fixed routes might not reach. They’ll provide a convenient and accessible mode of transportation for people who do not own cars, or travelers who need transportation to and from major spots like the airport.
Flexibility and Convenience: Unlike fixed-route buses, micro transits offer flexibility in terms of routes and schedules. Passengers will be able to book rides on-demand through a mobile app, and be picked up and dropped off at their preferred locations. This level of convenience is particularly beneficial for people with varying schedules or those who require personalized transportation options.
Cost-Effectiveness: Micro transits can be a cost-effective solution for both passengers and public transit agencies. For passengers, the fares for micro transit services are often competitive with or cheaper than traditional ride-hailing services. For transit agencies, micro transits can optimize the use of resources, reduce operational costs, and complement existing infrastructure.
Reduced Congestion and Emissions: By providing shared rides and optimizing routes, micro transits have the potential to alleviate congestion on city streets.
Stay tuned for more updates on the M’s micro transit system!
