New partnership with Richmond Lenox EMS brings flexible, on-demand transportation to communities across northern Macomb County
Via, the global leader in digital transportation solutions, announced the expansion of SMART Flex, SMART’s on-demand microtransit service powered by Via, into northern Macomb County. The expansion, operated by Richmond Lenox EMS (RLEMS) through SMART’s Community Partnership Program (CPP), will bring flexible, reliable transportation to communities where fixed-route bus service is limited.
Via will provide the technology platform powering the service, including the rider experience and technology infrastructure that enables on-demand transportation. Richmond Lenox EMS will provide local operations, drivers, and vehicles, combining community-based expertise with Via’s transit technology.
“Via is thrilled to continue supporting SMART as it expands on-demand microtransit across Metro Detroit,” said Alex Lavoie, COO of Via. “By pairing community-based operations with world-class transit technology, we're excited to help more residents access jobs, healthcare, and everyday destinations with greater flexibility and reliability.”
The expansion is part of SMART’s broader SMARTer Mobility plan, which will grow SMART Flex from five zones today to 11 across Metro Detroit. The initiative reflects SMART’s continued investment in flexible mobility options that complement traditional fixed-route service and help connect more residents to the transportation they need.
“SMART's mission is about meeting people where they are, and this partnership does exactly that,” said Tiffany J. Gunter, General Manager and CEO of SMART. “Richmond Lenox EMS knows their community, and by working alongside them, we're able to bring dependable, on-demand transportation to a part of Macomb County that hasn't had this option before.”
“This expansion is great news for the residents of northern Macomb County,” said JP Rea, Macomb County Deputy County Executive. “Reliable transportation is essential to growing our local economy and connecting residents to jobs, healthcare and everyday needs. We're grateful for SMART's continued investment in our community and for partners like Richmond Lenox EMS who help make that connection possible.”
“Richmond Lenox EMS is honored to help bring this new transportation option to the residents we serve every day,” said Jeff White, Chief of EMS at Richmond Lenox EMS. “As a community-based provider, we see firsthand how limited transportation can stand between residents and the care or opportunities they need. We're proud to put safe, reliable rides within reach of our neighbors.”
For more information about SMART Flex, visit https://city.ridewithvia.com/smart-flex-michigan.
Via is the global leader in digital transportation solutions, enabling cities, transit agencies, and organizations to create more efficient, accessible, and equitable transportation networks. Via's technology powers public mobility services in more than 700 communities across 35 countries, helping people get where they need to go through flexible transportation solutions. Learn more at ridewithvia.com.
Serving since 1967, SMART is southeast Michigan’s only regional public transportation provider, offering convenient, reliable, and safe transportation for Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties. SMART offers fixed route, microtransit, and paratransit services for seniors and people with disabilities. These services connect people to employment, colleges and universities, medical appointments, and shopping centers. Through SMART’s programs, nearly 8 million rides are provided annually. SMART is supported by federal and state funding, local contributions through a transit property tax millage from opt-in communities, and bus fares. For more information, visit www.smartmovesus.org.