NCTD, Cincinnati Metro launch new microtransit services

The North County Transit District (NCTD) and Cincinnati Metro have launched and expanded new microtransit services. 

NCTD launches NCTD+ 

NCTD launched its new on-demand service, NCTD+, in the city of Vista, Calif., on May 25 with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Vista Transit Center.   

The NCTD+ service is available within a seven-square-mile zone in Vista, which includes connections to three Sprinter rail stations and 79 Breeze bus stops, as well as many key locations such as the Vista Community Clinic, Brengle Terrace Park, Moonlight Amphitheater, Food4Less, Boys & Girls Club and more. 

“NCTD+ is perfect for short trips around Vista and provides a convenient transportation option to connect to the Sprinter,” said NCTD CEO Shawn M. Donaghy. “Kids can ride the service free, making NCTD+ the best way for families to travel throughout the city.” 

Vista Council Member and NCTD Board Member Corinna Contreras added, “I was proud to advocate for NCTD+ as a member of the NCTD Board and am excited for the service to come to Vista. NCTD+ is the perfect way for residents and visitors to my city to see the best Vista has to offer.” 

NCTD+ vehicles are ADA-accessible and seat up to eight passengers. A one-way ride to/from a Sprinter station is $1.50. All other destinations within the service zone are $3.00. Additional riders on the same booking can be added for $1.50 per person. Youth 18 and under ride for free. 

“I was happy to join the ribbon cutting ceremony this morning to celebrate this great service for Vista,” said Vista Deputy Mayor Katie Melendez. “There’s not much you can get for $1.50 these days — just NCTD+!” 

NCTD+ is available from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Riders can book rides through the NCTD+ app or via phone. 

Cincinnati Metro expands MetroNow! 

Cincinnati Metro expanded its MetroNow! on-demand transit service to Forest Park and Pleasant Run, Ohio, on June 8.  

Currently operating in the communities of Springdale/Sharonville and Northgate/Mt. Healthy, Cincinnati Metro notes MetroNow! offers a convenient service that functions similarly to popular ridesharing platforms. Riders can easily book trips within designated zones using the MetroNow! app or by phone, with each ride costing $2. The service operates Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on weekends from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., offering flexible travel options throughout the week. 

“As a proud Forest Park resident, I’m thrilled to see MetroNow! launching right here in our community,” said Hamilton County Commissioner Stephanie Summerow Dumas. “This service is more than just transit—it’s about connecting people to opportunity. Whether it’s jobs, healthcare or education, MetroNow! is making it easier for residents to move forward.” 

Cincinnati Metro Chief Communications and Marketing Officer Brandon Jones added, “MetroNow! has been a game-changer for Hamilton County, and the numbers speak for themselves. Since its launch in May 2023, we’ve seen consistent increases in both new ridership and overall usage each month, prompting the need for expanding services.”   

The agency says the expansion is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance mobility and connectivity throughout Hamilton County. The Forest Park/Pleasant Run zone marks the third MetroNow! zone in Hamilton County. 

MetroNow! uses shuttle-style vehicles to deliver flexible, on-demand service—offering convenient trips to destinations within each zone while also providing connections to Cincinnati Metro’s larger fixed-route network. An additional MetroNow! zone is scheduled to launch in Blue Ash in 2025.