Charmingly eccentric, full of personality, and designed for maximum reader engagement

StamFORWARD: Enhancing Transportation Options in Stamford, CT

Stamford residents now have another option when it comes to getting around the city with the launch of StamFORWARD and a two-year microtransit pilot program.

In 2023, the city was awarded $2.5 million from the Connecticut Department of Transportation to be one of nine transit districts and municipalities to participate in the program. Microtransit service is an accessible, on-demand mode of transportation that allows customers to use a smartphone app or telephone number to request/schedule a ride within designated service areas.

Powered by Via, a transit technology company, StamFORWARD now provides equitable and safe transportation for residents and visitors within the East Side, West Side, South End, and Downtown areas. Officials from the city and state gathered at the Stamford Government Center Tuesday afternoon to celebrate the program launch and to tout expanded transportation services in the city, especially in underserved areas.

“This is really about enhancing connectivity across our city, making it easier for people to get to and from work or to a doctor’s appointment. We hope this is utilized by as many residents as possible,” said Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons, who noted the pilot program is a “win-win” for the city and its residents.

“Hopefully if it goes well, we can try to continue this. This is just one more step forward to making our city a more inclusive, more equitable and more connected place,” Simmons added. Simmons thanked Frank Petise and Luke Buttenweiser from the city’s transportation bureau for seeking out the funding for the program, and she thanked the state DOT and local elected officials for helping to bring the initiative to the city.

The process to book a ride is similar to rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Residents can create an account in the StamFORWARD mobile app, which is available to download in the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store. Anyone within the designated zone can then book an on-demand shared ride.

Utilizing StamFORWARD is free for all residents through Dec. 19. After that, it will cost $1.75 per ride, plus 85 cents for additional riders. The cost to ride is 85 cents for seniors aged 65 and over and ADA-eligible riders. Once a ride is booked and a driver is on the way, riders will be directed to the closest “virtual bus stop” within a short walking distance to be picked up — usually a corner near the pickup address.

Via’s software algorithms will match multiple passengers heading in the same direction. “That creates a quick and efficient shared trip,” said Eric Gardiner, who leads the East Coast partnerships team for Via. For those who don’t have smartphones, rides can be booked by calling 203-204-9782 and speaking with a customer service agent. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available upon request.

“We were very committed to making sure that StamFORWARD works for everyone,” Gardiner said. Service hours are every day from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Via provides innovative software technology and operations to help the public sector launch flexible and efficient transportation services. Gardiner said the company has over 750 partnerships across the globe.

“We’re here because we understand that public transit, rail service and bus doesn’t always meet every need that a customer has, or someone who wants an option beyond a single occupancy vehicle,” added CT DOT Deputy Commissioner Karen Kitsis on Tuesday. “What this service will enable is for individuals to call from their home or place of business, or wherever they are within the geographical area, and go to places they want to go.”

Depending on the usage and ridership during the next two years, Kitsis there could be options to extend the program. “This is an investment in mobility and access to see how it can do, but really to grow that and to have something that can really benefit the residents of Stamford on a longer-term basis,” she said.

For more information on StamFORWARD and how it works, visit the official website.

Effects on Individuals

The launch of StamFORWARD and the microtransit pilot program will provide residents of Stamford, CT with more convenient and accessible transportation options, making it easier for them to get to work, medical appointments, and other destinations within the city.

Global Impact

This innovative transportation service could serve as a model for other cities around the world looking to improve connectivity, accessibility, and sustainability in urban transportation systems. By utilizing on-demand microtransit services, cities can reduce traffic congestion, emissions, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.

Conclusion

StamFORWARD is a promising initiative that aims to enhance transportation options in Stamford, CT and potentially serve as a model for other cities globally. By providing on-demand microtransit services, the program offers residents a convenient and accessible way to travel within the city, ultimately contributing to a more connected and sustainable urban environment.