City Unveils New StamFORWARD Ride-hailing Service
Free Rides Available During First Month
STAMFORD — Officials gathered Tuesday to announce the launch of StamFORWARD, the city’s new microtransit service. With funding from the state, the new ride-hailing initiative will aim to provide transportation around popular destinations at an affordable rate for passengers.
“This innovative pilot program will enhance connectivity, accessibility, and mobility in our city, providing residents with a reliable and affordable transportation option. By prioritizing underserved neighborhoods, StamFORWARD reflects our administration’s commitment to building a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable Stamford,” Mayor Caroline Simmons said in a press release. “I want to thank our Transportation, Traffic, and Parking Department for their work and the Connecticut Department of Transportation for their partnership and support in making this program a reality.”
Last year, the Connecticut Department of Transportation provided $2.5 million in grant funding to Stamford when it was one of nine transit districts and municipalities selected to pilot a two-year program for on-demand microtransit services.
“StamFORWARD will supplement the fixed transit network and provide equitable transportation service to residents and visitors throughout downtown, the East and West sides, and South End. This new service offers another option for first and last mile trips from the transportation center,” Frank Petise, Bureau Chief for the Transportation, Traffic, and Parking Department said. “I want to the thank our partners at the Connecticut Department of Transportation for providing the grant to fund the service.”
The on-demand rides program was created in partnership with Via Transportation, a transit technology company, and rides are now available at no cost through Thursday, December 19.
After that, prices will begin with a cost of $1.75 per ride. For any additional rider, it is another 85 cents. Seniors aged 65 years old and up as well as ADA eligible riders can use the service for 85 cents per ride (ID is required for eligibility).
“On behalf of the entire team at Via, we’re incredibly excited to partner with the City of Stamford,” Eric Gardiner, East Coast partnerships director for Via Transportation, said. “We are very committed to making sure that StamFORWARD works for everyone.”
The program is accessible every day from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm by using the StamFORWARD cell phone application or by calling 203-204-9782 to request a ride.
More information is available at city.ridewithvia.com/stamford.
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