MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) announced Wednesday that Memphis residents and visitors can now ride the popular Groove On-Demand public transportation service seven days a week, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The service’s goals are to expand access to efficient, equitable public transit in Memphis, and the increased service hours are a testament to the success that Groove On-Demand has seen since launching last February.
Groove On-Demand has provided over 55,000 rides to-date, many of which are helping riders reach essential destinations in Memphis such as hospitals, government buildings, grocery stores, and residential areas.
The service allows any rider to book an on-demand ride within minutes to travel anywhere in Downtown Memphis, the Medical District, South City, and New Chicago.
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MATA said recent rider survey results have uncovered insights that demonstrate how Groove has made a positive impact on the Memphis community in the last year, namely in the way Groove is providing transit equity for residents. MATA said 62% of Groove riders reported making under $50,000 per year, and 67% do not own a personal vehicle. According to MATA, 38% of Groove riders report they are traveling more due to the service.
Rides can be booked through the Groove On-Demand smartphone app or by calling (901) 763-8422.
The service uses algorithms which match multiple passengers headed in the same direction to provide shared trips without detours or inconvenient schedules.
Each trip costs $1.25 (with discounted rates available to seniors, students, and those with disabilities).
The first ten rides are free for new riders. Groove On-Demand is supported by a partnership between MATA, the Downtown Memphis Commission, and the Memphis Medical District Collaborative.