GASTONIA, N.C. — A new micro-transit service has officially launched in Gastonia.
It’s called Go Gastonia, and just like with Lyft or Uber, people can schedule a ride using their phone.
"A lot of excitement early this morning," Gastonia's Director of Transportation Randi Gates said. "We started at 5:30 a.m., and right at 5:30, we booked our first two rides."
City leaders introduced this new ride service months ago, saying Gastonia needed an updated, more reliable transportation system.
By calling 704-753-7439 or using the Go Gastonia app, riders can pay just $2 for a one-way trip anywhere within city limits.
The fare is just $1 for adults older than 65 and people who have disabilities.
Rides are free for children under age 5 with a paying adult. Children must be age 13 and up to ride alone.
As of Monday, July 1, there are 14 vehicles are in service, replacing six city bus routes.
"With this new rideshare service, we cover the entire city limits so were pushing 50 square miles," Gates said.
Gates said with an aging fleet of buses, low ridership and long wait times, the city was in need of an upgrade.
"On demand, you book a ride when you need it," she said. "The fixed route would only come once an hour to a stop. This, you book it, and the ride should be there to get you within 15 to 20 minutes. It’s much closer you’re not having to walk to the nearest bus stop. The app will tell you where you need to go."
Older adults and disabled riders can receive door-to-door service if they need it, and four of the vehicles are wheelchair accessible. Some of the vehicles also have bike racks.
The city's transportation department said the new service will not displace ADA transportation services provided by the city.
The Go Gastonia app is available on all smartphone devices.
For more information, including how to become a 'Go Gastonia' driver, visit the official website.
Contact Destiny Richards at drichards5@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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