Case Studies Via Jersey City: An On-Demand Public Transit Solution
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Via Jersey City: An On-Demand Public Transit Solution

Functional Applications - Fleet Management Systems (FMS)
Networks & Connectivity - Cellular
Transportation
Cities & Municipalities
Logistics & Transportation
Business Operation
Fleet Management
Public Transportation Management
Smart City Operations
Software Design & Engineering Services
System Integration
After the regional transit authority canceled key bus routes in two neighborhoods already underserved by fixed route transit, Jersey City took its transportation needs into its own hands. The city aimed to improve mobility and complement existing transit options. The challenge was to provide a comprehensive public transit solution that could serve commuting and other trips, especially in areas with limited fixed route services. The goal was to create a city-controlled, on-demand public transit system that could offer greater connectivity to light rails and major downtown employment centers.
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Jersey City, located in New Jersey, is a bustling urban area with a diverse population. The city has been proactive in addressing its public transportation needs, especially in underserved neighborhoods. The local government, led by Mayor Steven Fulop, has been keen on improving mobility and accessibility for its residents. Jersey City has a mix of commuters, residents, seniors, and students who rely on public transit for their daily activities. The city has been working closely with various stakeholders, including ward leaders and city transit planners, to design and implement effective transportation solutions.
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Via Jersey City was launched in February 2020 with a fleet that included electric vehicles, reflecting a commitment to sustainable transport. The service was designed to fit seamlessly into the existing transit ecosystem with a fare of $2, comparable to the city bus. The innovative service model allowed riders to book trips to or from central wards but not within them, ensuring that the service complemented existing transit options like PATH, light rail, and bus routes. In response to growing demand and social distancing requirements amid the global pandemic, the service expanded in September 2020 by almost doubling its fleet size. The service zone covered 15 square miles, and the fleet included 24 Mercedes Metris vans and 2 Kia Niro electric SUVs. The service operated from 6 AM to 10 PM on weekdays, catering to a diverse rider cohort including commuters, residents, seniors, and students.
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Via Jersey City is Via’s fastest-growing U.S. service, serving an average of 1,200 rides a day and 6,000 per week.
The service has benefited communities of lower income the most, with half of the riders identifying their annual income being below $50,000 and 27% being below $27,000.
Sixty-two percent of riders use the service to commute.
6 out of 10 destinations are connections to transit.
70% of rides are shared.
The service saved an estimated 2,452 gallons of gasoline in the last quarter of 2020.
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