Newark Is Testing Free Weekend Ride Service In Art District

NEWARK, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of the City of Newark. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

Mayor Ras Baraka recently joined Invest Newark to announce that the city is partnering with Via to launch “Via Newark,” a free weekend-only, on-demand transit service. The six-month pilot program, developed in partnership with Invest Newark and TransitTech provider Via, is designed to help residents and visitors conveniently and affordably access key cultural, educational, and commercial destinations in the city's growing Arts and Education District.

Via Newark is open to the public starting Friday, May 16. Anyone can book an on-demand shared ride to travel anywhere within the service zone, but the program primarily seeks to ease travel for commerce and culture serve Arts and Education District points of interest (map available below). The program is supported by Urban Enterprise Zone funds made available thanks to the reform law spearheaded by the late Lieutenant Governor Sheila Oliver.

“This is what accessible, people-centered transportation looks like,” said Mayor Baraka. “Via Newark helps ensure every resident — no matter their income or ZIP code — can enjoy all that our Arts and Education District has to offer.”

Anyone within Newark city limits can book a ride using the Via Newark app (available in the App Store and Google Play) or by calling 973-755-0805. Via’s intelligent algorithms match riders heading in the same direction into one vehicle — creating quick and efficient shared trips. Riders may be directed to walk to their nearest street corner for pickup or drop-off – this minimizes detours and keeps trips running quickly for everyone.

Via Newark will operate Fridays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 9 p.m.

“This program makes it easier than ever for families, students, and tourists to experience the best of Newark,” said Marcus Randolph, CEO of Invest Newark. “Via Newark removes transportation barriers and moves us closer to a more connected, inclusive city.”

Via Newark represents the latest in a growing trend of U.S. cities embracing microtransit to address mobility gaps. The initial pilot period will demonstrate how microtransit can be successfully deployed across Newark.

To learn more about how the service works or to book a ride, visit city.ridewithvia.com/newark

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