City Council authorizes Via partnership to support Tyler Transit operations

On Wednesday, Nov. 12, Tyler City Council approved an agreement with Via Transportation, Inc. to provide passenger trip assistance for MicroTransit and ParaTransit services. This agreement allows independent contractors to operate in their own vehicles, providing coverage for overflow services in a model that combines the efficiency and affordability of public transit with the convenience of rideshare services.

The independent contractors will begin driving for Tyler Transit on Nov. 19. This agreement will enable Tyler Transit to meet the growing need for its on-demand rides, particularly during peak ridership times when City-operated vehicles are fully scheduled.

"Adding independent contractors through Via's program will give us the flexibility to meet more riders' needs without changing how they book their trips," said Tyler Transit Manager Russ Jackson.

Riders will continue to use the Tyler Transit mobile app or call center to schedule their trips as usual. When a contracted driver is assigned, the app will notify riders that they will be picked up by Via, and the vehicle will display an official Via decal for easy identification.

This addition will not affect the booking process or the cost of rides. It simply expands the City's capacity to serve residents efficiently and reliably.

Via has partnered with municipalities across the country to implement similar hybrid models, combining City-operated vehicles with qualified independent drivers to improve coverage and reduce wait times.

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