Cities, providers warn microtransit pilot needs continued funding or services will stop

Mayoral and industry witnesses urged the Appropriations Committee to retain funding for the Connecticut Department of Transportation's microtransit pilot, saying the program has served hundreds of thousands of rides and supports mobility for residents without cars.

"Of the $19,500,000 2‑year statewide program launched in 2024, New Haven receives $3,100,000 for our microtransit program called Via NHV," Justin Elicker, mayor of New Haven, said, adding that Via New Haven has completed about 45,000 rides since launching in March 2025. He said 73% of riders in New Haven do not have access to a personal car and 41% of households served report incomes under $50,000.

Jeremy Tillinger, director of public policy at Via Transportation, told the committee Via‑contracted services across Connecticut have provided "over 370,000 rides since launch" and warned that without FY27 funding "many of the state's municipalities and transit agencies could be forced to curtail their microtransit services on July 1, resulting in tens of thousands of Connecticut residents immediately losing access to transit lifelines." Tillinger said the caucus bill introduced by Senate Democrats would appropriate funds for FY27 to continue existing services while longer‑term funding is developed.

A local operator who identified himself in testimony as Jeremy Scalise described operating microtransit zones in Enfield, Trumbull and Milford, reported high on‑time performance and recounted a rider testimonial about the program’s impact.

No formal committee action was taken during the hearing; witnesses were invited to submit supporting data to committee staff.