October 28, 2025 (SALEM, MA) — The City of Salem today announced that the Salem Skipper, the city’s on-demand public transit service powered by Via, has provided more than 500,000 rides since launching in December 2020.
The Salem Skipper was created to help residents and visitors get around the city easily and affordably without relying on personal vehicles. It advances Salem’s goal of becoming a more “car-light” and climate-friendly community. Riders can book shared, dynamically routed trips through the Salem Skipper app or by phone for $2 or less. In May 2024, the service expanded to also serve parts of Danvers and Beverly.
“We’re proud to celebrate how the Salem Skipper has transformed how people move around our city,” said Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo. “This moment reflects how Salem is working to provide excellent and affordable transportation services designed for people of all ages, income levels, and abilities. I am so grateful to city staff members who have worked to reach this milestone.”
Since launch, the Salem Skipper has become an integral part of everyday life for thousands of residents, with a majority of trips connecting with essential destinations such as grocery stores, workplaces, healthcare facilities, and schools - including Salem High School and Salem State University. According to a recent rider survey, Salem Skipper is helping reduce transportation barriers and costs for residents:
- 46% report household incomes under $50,000
- 86% of riders say Salem Skipper helps them save money on transportation
- 72% say it enables them to afford trips they might not otherwise take
- 71% report a positive economic impact on their household or business
- 45% say they would have difficulty getting to work or job training without it
The Salem Skipper continues to play a critical role in reducing car dependency and supporting Salem’s long-term goals for growth, while serving as a model for other Massachusetts communities looking to expand access to transportation.
“The City of Salem has set an incredible example of what’s possible when local leaders invest in flexible public transportation,” said Rob Bryans, Via’s Partnerships Lead for the Northeast U.S. “Reaching 500,000 rides is more than a milestone – it’s proof that technology-enabled transit can expand access, reduce car dependency, and make communities better places to live.”
To learn more about the Skipper, please visit: https://city.ridewithvia.com/salem-skipper
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