Via launches first on-demand deployment in Ontario with Sault Ste. Marie Transit services

Aug. 27, 2019
Sault Ste. Marie on-demand aims to overhaul an underutilized fixed-route bus network with on-demand microtransit technology.

Via will be deploying a new on-demand public transportation service in partnership with Sault Ste. Marie Transit Services starting September 8 in Ontario, Canada.

Passengers will be able to ride Sault Ste. Marie On-Demand, a new dynamically routed shared transit network aiming to dramatically overhaul the area’s existing fixed-route bus system.

Sault Ste. Marie On-Demand will initially operate on Sundays from 7:15 p.m. to midnight when ridership has historically been low on the existing fixed-route buses. Riders can hail a Sault Ste. Marie On-Demand bus in real-time to their desired stop, which allows more efficient utilization of city buses, rather than continuously driving on fixed-routes with little or no passengers.

“We are thrilled to partner with the innovative team at the city of Sault Ste. Marie to bring Via’s technology to Ontario for the very first time,” said Daniel Ramot, co-founder and CEO of Via. “The new Sault Ste. Marie On-Demand service shows how public transportation and technology can work together to make a city smarter. Residents now have a comfortable, convenient and affordable way to move around. This is truly a great example of a city embracing the future of mobility.”

Using the Sault Ste. Marie On-Demand app, riders will be able to hail a shuttle directly from their smartphone. Via’s algorithms will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle. The technology will direct passengers to a nearby bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.

Sault Ste. Marie On-Demand allows riders to travel from one pre-existing established stop to another as requested. Once the bus arrives, passengers can proceed onto the bus and pay using their existing transit pass or cash. The app provides riders with notifications and messages, real-time vehicle tracking, and an opportunity for users to provide post-ride feedback.

“This presents an excellent opportunity to run a pilot for on-demand services,” said Brent Lamming, director of community services. “By implementing an on-demand transit technology system, the city intends to reduce the number of buses used to service the routes (presently nine) and improve service delivery by making more efficient use of resources.”

Commuters can use the service by downloading the Sault Ste. Marie On-Demand smartphone app powered by Via, available on iOS and Android, and available for download starting September 1. Users can book rides between the pre-existing Sault Ste. Marie Transit stops.