Middlesex County to launch RIDE On Demand in New Brunswick

On Thursday, Middlesex County announced the Feb. 27 launch of RIDE On Demand – an affordable app-based public transit service.

Officials say the service intends to address transit gaps where buses and trains cannot efficiently serve demand. The City of New Brunswick is slated as the first participant in the one-year pilot program.

RIDE On Demand’s app and operations are provided by Via. The TransitTech company specializes in this type of technology. Additionally, it has served as the platform for other similar ventures in New Jersey, such as Jersey City and Camden.

When a ride is booked through the app, Via’s algorithm matches other riders headed in the same direction into one vehicle – resulting in a highly efficient service.

Notable details about RIDE On Demand include:

• Provides transportation for $3 per rider
• Service will be available Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• To familiarize people in New Brunswick, the service will offer unlimited free rides for the first two introductory weeks

Program stakeholders note that riders can book the service through the app within New Brunswick. Then, they get picked up in minutes and driven to work, medical appointments, grocery stores or any location within the city. The app is available in the App Store and Google Play Store by searching Middlesex County RIDE On Demand.

‘Safe, convenient, reliable transportation at an affordable rate’

Ronald Rios, Middlesex County Board of County Commissioners director, said the initiative is part of the county’s strategic investment in transportation infrastructure.

“This on-demand public transit service will provide our residents and visitors easy access to safe, convenient, reliable transportation at an affordable rate,” said Rios. “I encourage everyone in New Brunswick to take advantage of this low-cost microtransit option.”

Charles Kenny, Middlesex County commissioner and chair of the county’s Transportation Committee, stressed that RIDE On Demand can transport riders safely and efficiently, especially getting to and from major transportation services, such as train stations and bus stops.

“This is an excellent extension of the county’s existing affordable transit options, and an example of our ongoing commitment to increasing mobility throughout the county,” said Kenny.

New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill commended the county for introducing the program.

“This initiative underscores their commitment to offering affordable, flexible, and secure transportation solutions for our community,” said Cahill. “New Brunswick is enthusiastic about renewing its partnership with the county to pilot this innovative, app-based transit service. We encourage everyone in New Brunswick to embrace the convenience of RIDE On Demand and discover the opportunities this new county service will provide.”

Following the initial assessments of this pilot, officials say the program may eventually expand to other Middlesex County municipalities.

Eyes on the roads

In October 2023, Middlesex County officials announced the completion of a study that assessed the impact of truck traffic on local roads and neighborhoods throughout that area. Click here for the outcome.