Amid the throngs of fans attending three sold-out Taylor Swift "Eras Tour" concerts, Arlington's microtransit network proved its mettle. Mayor Jim Ross proudly highlighted the city's efficient transportation system in a recent video posted by FOX4 News, emphasizing its capability to handle major events despite not being tied to a traditional transit authority.
"We have public transportation," Mayor Ross stated. "If you've ever been to a Cowboy game, a Ranger game, or the World Series parade where we had 750,000 people, they moved in and out just fine. We have a rideshare [microtransit] program that gets people around just fine."
"We've done Super Bowls, three Taylor Swift concerts in a row — that's almost as big as a World Cup. Our traffic management people are second to none. We get people in and out as good, if not better, than any other city in the country."
— Jim Ross, Mayor of the City of Arlington, Texas
Arlington's microtransit system, operated by Via, began as a pilot program in 2017 and has since become a comprehensive transit network covering 101 square miles. The city council implemented this innovative approach after repeated rejections of traditional transit ballot measures. The system's success is attributed to its affordability and convenience, with 85% of riders citing these as their primary reasons for using the service.
Unlike conventional bus routes, Via’s microtransit uses advanced algorithms to provide dynamic routing, ensuring efficient, shared rides tailored to real-time demand. This flexibility has been crucial in managing the transportation needs of Arlington's 400,000 residents, particularly during large-scale events.
Mayor Ross's confidence in the system was evident as he recounted Arlington's experience in managing high-profile events. "We've done Super Bowls, three Taylor Swift concerts in a row — that's almost as big as a World Cup," he noted. "Our traffic management people are second to none. We get people in and out as good, if not better, than any other city in the country."
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The microtransit network has also been praised for its inclusivity. With a significant portion of its passengers not owning cars, the system ensures that all residents have access to reliable transportation. The service has grown from an initial fleet of 18 vehicles to 82, integrating paratransit services and expanding its reach throughout the city.
"We do have a public transportation system," Mayor Ross reiterated, addressing concerns about Arlington not being part of a specific transit authority. "We're just not assigned to a transit authority. This is the type of thing that Arlington was born and raised to do. We do this all the time."
Arlington's partnership with Via underscores a successful shift towards modern public transit solutions, demonstrating how cities can leverage technology to meet their unique travel needs. The microtransit model not only supports large events like the Taylor Swift concerts but also provides daily transit solutions, making it a viable alternative to traditional public transportation systems.
