The curb-to-curb service, which debuted in East Palo Alto, Belle Haven and Half Moon Bay in June, is now extending its free rides through the end of October. When it rolled out, riders were set to be charged, at the same rate as regular bus fare, after July 31.
The service is similar to apps such as Uber or Lyft where users can book a curb-to-curb ride to destinations within the service area using the Ride Plus app or via a phone call.
Over 1,000 passengers have used the Ride Plus service for free, with SamTrans representatives saying they consider the free promotional period a success.
“Our numbers are steadily increasing and when we go out to the community, many people are aware of the new service,” said Mahmoud Abunie, SamTrans’ public affairs specialist.
According to numbers provided by Abunie, there were 66 riders on average last week in the East Palo Alto zone.
When asked why SamTrans has decided to extend the promotional period, Abunie said the transit agency wants more people to experience Ride Plus to ease the community into the service.
Starting Nov. 1, the fares for Ride Plus will be charged and can be paid for with the Clipper app or bus passes. For adults without a Clipper account, bus fares are $2.25, with discounted prices for seniors and youth as low as $1 via Clipper.
For more information visit SamTrans.com.
