Pierce Transit launched a new on-demand Runner service in the Puyallup, Wash., area Nov. 14. Trips can be booked on a new, dedicated Pierce Transit Runner app or by calling a phone number. Runner is an affordable, on-demand neighborhood transit service that transports customers in locations that aren't easily accessible by bus. Puyallup Runner adds to Pierce Transit’s existing Runner zones in Parkland/Spanaway/Midland, Ruston, Tideflats and Joint Base Lewis-McChord.
Runner offers the following benefits:
- New, state-of-the-art dedicated Runner app powered by Via to optimize rider experience
- Increases access to work and school in underserved areas
- Improves access to recreation and entertainment
- Provides loading and unloading of passengers in safe locations where few accessible stops are available
- On-demand and dynamically routed transit offers flexibility for workers on non-traditional shifts
- Pairs riders headed the same direction to ensure faster service
- Decreases congestion during busiest commute times
- Decreases crowding in parking areas
- Reduces emissions and car trips
- Offers a first-last mile solution for connections to traditional public transportation
- Smaller vehicles have access to locations that a bus cannot serve
Puyallup Runner
The zone served by Puyallup Runner includes the city of Puyallup and parts of South Hill from the Puyallup River to 128th St. E, and from Shaw Road East to 9th St. SW. The zone includes Puyallup Station, South Hill Park & Ride and South Hill Mall Transit Center, where riders can make transit connections to local and regional transportation. The Puyallup Runner is available seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The new Via-powered Runner app will also be used for Spanaway, Ruston and Tideflats Runners starting on Jan. 2, 2024. Current Runner riders will need to download the new app at the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The new Runner app includes the following features:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Connects to bus and train options, when available
- Quick sign-up and trip booking
- Simple curb-to-curb service within the zone, just choose your pick-up and drop-off locations
- Accurate wait times, real-time vehicle locations
- Better communication between drivers, dispatch, riders
- ADA compliant features
- Ride rating/feedback
About Pierce Transit Runner
Pierce Transit Runner offers ADA accessible trips. Runner vans can accommodate wheelchairs, mobility devices and service animals. Vehicles can also accommodate strollers or bikes.
Runner has the same fare as riding a Pierce Transit bus and is free for youth age 18 and younger. Riders can pay using One Ride Tickets, All Day Passes or 30 Day Passes purchased through their smartphone using the Transit app. Riders can also present a valid ORCA card to ride.
