Riverside Transit Agency’s (RTA) new microtransit service, GoMicro, has been introduced in the Hemet-San Jacinto, Calif., area on minibuses that operate every day, serving nearly 300 stops. The shared service allows customers to easily book their trips on a mobile device by using the GoMicro app.
RTA is offering free rides to all customers through Jan. 7 to promote the new app.
RTA Board Chair Linda Molina said there’s a lot to like about GoMicro, including shorter travel times, more direct trips and since there’s no set schedule, customers can book at their convenience.
“This is a game-changer in the way we offer public transportation in Riverside County,” Molina said. “GoMicro has the potential to revolutionize the way we get around for years to come.”
To book a trip, customers can download the GoMicro app and book a ride for either the same day or up to a week in advance. On-demand service means customers can access service when they need it, instead of having to plan their trip around a set schedule like a regular bus route.
GoMicro vehicles are ADA-friendly and seat up to 12 passengers. When the promotional period ends, GoMicro fares will be the same as those on other RTA local buses. Students who are part of the Go-Pass and U-Pass at participating colleges ride for free.
GoMicro vehicles serve existing bus stops in the Hemet-San Jacinto microtransit zone, with popular destinations, including the Hemet Valley Mall, Mt. San Jacinto College, Soboba Casino Resort, Hemet Global Medical Center, Walmart Supercenter Hemet High School and San Jacinto High School.
The arrival of GoMicro means big changes in the Hemet-San Jacinto area. Currently, there are seven routes that operate within the area: Routes 28, 31, 32, 33, 42, 74 and 79. Route 28 will remain the same while routes 32, 33 and 42 will be replaced by GoMicro in early January. Routes 31, 74 and 79 will be truncated at the edge of the zone at Mt. San Jacinto College and Hemet Valley Mall. A new Hemet circulator, Route 44, will operate between Mt. San Jacinto College and Hemet Valley Mall using State Street and San Jacinto and West Oakland avenues.
