Hampton Roads Transit has expanded its On-Demand ridesharing service to Chesapeake and Hampton, extending a low-cost transportation option into two additional cities across the region. The expansion builds on an existing pilot program that previously operated in Virginia Beach and continues in Newport News.
The On-Demand service offers point-to-point rides within designated zones for a flat two-dollar fare. It is designed to supplement fixed-route bus service in areas where traditional transit options may be limited, providing additional mobility for residents who do not have access to a personal vehicle.
How the On-Demand Service Works in Hampton
In Hampton, the On-Demand zone spans approximately 5.9 square miles and connects with seven existing bus routes. Riders can use the service to reach a range of major destinations, including employment centers, shopping districts, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.
Key connection points in the Hampton service area include NASA Langley, the Hampton Roads Convention Center, Langley Speedway, Coliseum Crossing, Boo Williams Sportsplex, Peninsula Town Center, Sentara CarePlex Hospital, Hampton University Proton Cancer Institute, and an Amazon warehouse facility.
Chesapeake Zone Covers a Larger Service Area
In Chesapeake, the On-Demand program covers roughly 11 square miles and links riders to four bus routes. The service area includes government offices, medical centers, retail hubs, and recreational sites.
Destinations within the Chesapeake zone include City Hall and Bells Mill Park, Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, Tidewater Community College, Chesapeake City Park and Arboretum, Great Bridge Shopping Center, Hanbury Village, Cedar Lakes Shopping Center, Oak Grove Lake Park, and the Great Bridge Battlefield and Waterways Museum.
Free Rides During Launch Period
To introduce the expanded service, Hampton Roads Transit is offering free rides in both Hampton and Chesapeake for the first two weeks of operation. After the introductory period, the standard two-dollar fare will apply.
HRT Commissioner Roland White said the program is focused on filling transportation gaps across the region.
“What this provides is a service that is needed for the public, and particularly may be limited,” White said.
Hampton Mayor Jimmy Gray emphasized the role the service plays in everyday access.
“When you can get to those key places when you shop and work at that two-dollar price point is pretty easy to manage,” Gray said.
Pilot Program Runs Through October
The On-Demand service in Chesapeake and Hampton is operating under a pilot program scheduled to run through October. HRT leaders said performance data from the pilot will be reviewed before deciding whether to make the service permanent.
According to HRT, approximately 16 vehicles are currently available to support the On-Demand program across the expanded service areas.
Rideshare drivers and transportation stakeholders interested in service details, operating zones, and rider information can find additional resources and maps at gohrt.com/OnDemand.
Source: 13 News Now
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