The City of Alexandria introduced a new mobile app for users of the city’s paratransit service, DOT, to book pre-scheduled rides.
The new app and accompanying software will also improve efficiency and quality of service for riders by streamlining vehicle dispatching and shortening wait times. Other benefits include the ability to:
- Reserve, track and cancel rides through the app.
- Receive automated ride notification reminders the night before a reservation, when the vehicle is approaching and when the vehicle has arrived.
- Pay for fares by credit card.
- Receive a 30-minute pickup window to allow service to run more efficiently and serve more riders.
Improvements also include extending the DOT service zone to include the surrounding Washington, D.C., area, which expands travel options for city residents with disabilities.
"The city is excited to make these important changes to our paratransit program, and offer DOT users fast, easy-to-use, technology-based options for transportation scheduling,” said Alexandria Mayor Justin Wilson. “All transportation system users deserve safe, efficient, equitable, and convenient travel options.”
The enhancements to the DOT program were made through the city’s partnership with Via, a transit technology company, that has implemented similar improvements to paratransit programs in Hampton Roads, Va., Grand Rapids, Mich., and Berlin, Germany.
“Via is committed to helping our partners around the world use software to build more accessible and equitable public transportation systems,” said Dillon Twombly, chief revenue officer, Via. “That’s why we are proud to partner with Alexandria, a city that has demonstrated its commitment to using innovation to create inclusive transportation options for all riders. We look forward to seeing how this partnership improves the paratransit experience and expands opportunities for the community.”
Alexandria DOT Paratransit fares are unchanged: free trips within the city of Alexandria, $4 per trip if traveling less than five miles outside the city; $6 per trip if traveling more than five miles outside the city. Program eligibility requirements and the vehicle fleet also remain the same.
Additionally, riders who do not wish to use the app can still call 703.836.5222 to book a ride by phone.
