The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) announced today that it is seeking proposals from qualified and eligible applicants to develop and operate an on-demand microtransit service pilot program.
Microtransit service is a mode of transportation that uses a digital network to offer on-demand transportation in response to consumer demand in select service zones. Connecticut residents will benefit from microtransit service, which fills in the gaps in Connecticut's extensive public transportation system, bringing more service to communities that have been historically underserved, helping seniors and individuals with mobility impairments, and creating first and last-mile connections to existing public transportation systems.
For example, a resident will be able to use a smartphone app or make a phone call to request a pick up or drop off within select service areas, which could include business and shopping districts, entertainments venues, as well as train stations, bus stops, or Park and Ride lots. The on-demand service provides flexibility and increased mobility options for residents.
“We are looking forward to implementing this important pilot program and expanding microtransit services in Connecticut. We have seen the success of microtransit in other parts of the country and are hopeful to see it replicated in our state,” stated CTDOT Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto. “The expansion of microtransit benefits communities around the state by ensuring transportation is no longer a barrier to health care, education, and employment. The service is vital to enhancing the quality of life for all of Connecticut’s residents and improving the state’s economic vitality.”
Eligible applicants for this proposal include municipalities, transit districts, and councils of governments (COGs) that propose services that meet the pilot program's objectives and requirements. CTDOT will review and select an estimated five to seven proposals, based on available funding, serving both rural and urban areas to receive operational funding. Microtransit services would start within six months of the award. The pilot program will last for two years with the possibility of two one-year extensions exercisable solely by CTDOT.
A virtual pre-proposal meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 22, 2023. The Request for Proposal (RFP) submittal deadline is 4 p.m. EST, Friday, April 28, 2023.
In addition to this pilot program, Connecticut already has the following microtransit services: XtraMile (operated by Estuary Transit District), Rides On-Demand (Housatonic Area Regional Transit District), Wheels 2U Norwalk and Wheels 2U Westport (Norwalk Transit District), and New London Smart Ride and Stonington HOP Service (Southeast Area Transit District).
Qualified and eligible applicants can find more information regarding this RFP by visiting portal.ct.gov/DAS/CTSource/BidBoard and searching for RFP# OTR0126-23-R-12883.