West Sacramento reviews on demand rideshare pilot program with Via

In the heart of West Sacramento, city officials gathered to discuss the future of the on-demand rideshare program, a service that has been transforming local transportation since its inception in 2018. As the meeting progressed, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, particularly as the commission prepared to delve into updates on the program's pilot expansion into Downtown Sacramento and potential fare adjustments.

The presentation began with a brief history of the rideshare initiative, which has been a collaborative effort between the TMI Commission and the city council since 2016. The program, operated by Nomad Transit LLC, also known as Via, has recently secured a new three-year contract, ensuring continued service and support for the community. Currently, the program offers corner-to-corner rides within West Sacramento, utilizing a fleet of 18 hybrid Toyota Siennas to meet the growing demand.

As the discussion unfolded, it was revealed that the rideshare service operates daily, with varying hours throughout the week, and fares are set at $3.50 for a single ride, with additional costs for extra passengers. A weekly pass is available for frequent riders, allowing up to four rides a day for just $15. Notably, the program also provides a 50% discount for eligible riders, making it accessible to a broader audience.

The success of the program was highlighted by the achievement of a significant milestone: the completion of over one million rides since its launch. In the fiscal year 2024-2025 alone, nearly 200,000 rides were completed, showcasing the program's popularity and effectiveness. However, challenges remain, including instances of unaccepted ride requests and cancellations, which the commission is keen to address.

As the meeting drew to a close, the commissioners expressed gratitude for the insights shared and the ongoing efforts to enhance the rideshare program. With the potential fare changes and the expansion into Downtown Sacramento on the horizon, the future of transportation in West Sacramento looks promising, aiming to meet the needs of its residents while fostering a more connected community.