Chandler City Council approves new agreement with RiverNorth Transit for Flex service

The City of Chandler held a study session on April 30, 2025, where key discussions centered around a new agreement with RiverNorth Transit, also known as Via, to continue operating the Chairman Flex service. The city has secured a $1 million grant from Congressman Greg Stanton, awarded in 2024, which necessitated a reprocurement process to ensure compliance with Federal Transportation Administration guidelines.

The Chairman Flex service, which began in February 2022, offers an on-demand transportation option for residents. Passengers can request rides through the Channel Lehi app or by phone, with rides typically shared among users. The fare structure includes a $2 charge for regular passengers, $1 for seniors and individuals with disabilities, and free rides for students traveling to after-school activities. This summer, the city plans to reintroduce free trips to city facilities, promoting ridership during school breaks.

Since its inception, the service has provided over 100,000 rides to approximately 5,000 individuals, with a significant portion of trips serving school-related activities. Popular destinations include Chandler Regional Medical Center, Tumbleweed Park, and various employment and shopping centers. The service area primarily targets underserved regions of the city, aiming to bridge gaps in public transportation access.

Feedback on the service has been overwhelmingly positive, with a high customer satisfaction rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Vice Mayor expressed enthusiasm about the program's success, particularly in meeting the transportation needs of the South Side community, which had previously been uncertain about the service's viability.

The meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing transportation options for residents, especially in areas lacking fixed-route transit services. The continuation of the Chairman Flex service is seen as a vital step in improving mobility and connectivity within Chandler.