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Wheels2U: Enhancing Transit Connections in Norwalk with On-Demand Technology
Technology Category
- Analytics & Modeling - Real Time Analytics
- Functional Applications - Fleet Management Systems (FMS)
- Networks & Connectivity - Cellular
Applicable Industries
- Cities & Municipalities
- Transportation
Applicable Functions
- Business Operation
- Logistics & Transportation
Use Cases
- Fleet Management
- Public Transportation Management
- Real-Time Location System (RTLS)
Services
- Data Science Services
- Software Design & Engineering Services
- System Integration
The Challenge
In 2018, the Norwalk Transit District (NTD) launched 'Wheels2U,' an on-demand pilot service aimed at increasing public transit ridership and improving connections throughout Norwalk, Connecticut. Nine months into the pilot, the NTD sought to grow ridership and make service improvements. They decided to replace their previous on-demand transit technology provider with Via to better optimize operations and facilitate connections to key destinations in the city. The primary challenge was to reduce wait times and enhance the overall efficiency of the public transit system, addressing growing concerns over traffic and parking congestion.
About The Customer
The Norwalk Transit District (NTD) is a public transportation provider serving the City of Norwalk, Connecticut. Established to enhance social mobility and economic viability, the NTD aims to provide efficient and reliable transit services to the community. The district operates a range of transit services, including fixed-route buses and on-demand transit solutions, to meet the diverse needs of commuters, visitors, shoppers, and diners. With a focus on reducing traffic congestion and improving accessibility, the NTD continuously seeks innovative solutions to enhance its service offerings and better connect key downtown locations and attractions.
The Solution
In August 2019, the NTD relaunched 'Wheels2U' with Via's state-of-the-art on-demand technology platform. The new solution included an easy-to-use mobile application that allowed riders to request trips in real time and track the location of their assigned vehicle. For riders without smartphones, live phone dispatchers were available to book trips on their behalf. Via's technology pooled passengers heading in the same direction into efficient shared rides and dynamically routed vehicles based on live demand patterns and traffic conditions. The service facilitated travel to key destinations in the city, such as the South Norwalk neighborhood and the Maritime Aquarium, and provided first- and last-mile connections to two Metro-North stations within the service zone.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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