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Council approves $200,000 dispatch upgrade to shift Peoria transit to on‑demand model, staff projects net savings
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Summary
Council approved a one‑time $200,000 software upgrade and authorization to transition contracted micro‑transit (WeRide) to an on‑demand model using a transportation network company (Uber/Lyft and partner providers). Staff projected annual net savings and described ADA accessibility and outreach plans.
Peoria City Council voted unanimously on Nov. 18 to approve a one‑time $200,000 software purchase and to authorize moving the city's micro‑transit model toward an app‑based, same‑day on‑demand service that will use a transportation network company (TNC) network for overflow and portions of service.
City staff introduced the item as part of a broader Peoria transit revamp. "We want a transition similar to what we did with the Ride Choice from a one day advance notice shared ride to an on demand without shared rides," Chris Hallett (transcript introduction) said. Staff said the one‑time software cost is already budgeted and the change would allow real‑time dispatching and app scheduling, expanding the limited geography currently served by contracted micro‑transit.
Staff projected substantial annual savings: they estimated the contract cost under the current model at about $1.2 million annually and suggested the on‑demand model could save roughly $1,000,000 per year. Current WeRide trips were described as approximately 8,200 trips at a cost of $142 per trip; under the proposed model the city would subsidize roughly $15 per trip and riders would pay the remainder through the TNC fare.
Council members sought assurances on ADA access and rider accommodations. Tremaine (transit supervisor) said staff will require ADA compliance from software vendors, add an interactive voice response (IVR) option and rely on built‑in screen‑reader options for visually impaired users. Staff said they will maintain a staffed dispatch hotline for questions and provide outreach mailers to affected riders and senior centers.
Council also asked about driver training and safety. Staff said the TNC model will engage a network of providers — taxis, medical transport and TNC drivers — and that trip requests will include screening and service‑level options; specialized ADA providers will remain available where needed.
Council moved to approve the request and the motion passed 7‑0. Staff said implementation would take roughly 6–12 weeks for software deployment and would aim for an earliest service change in January, timed with contract and notification transitions.
