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Council approves microtransit study to examine transit gaps and feed fixed routes

Knoxville City Council · April 1, 2026

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Summary

Council authorized a $74,332 study to identify microtransit options for underserved areas of Knoxville; transit director said the work will examine service gaps and how microtransit could complement fixed‑route service while preserving ADA paratransit obligations.

The Knoxville City Council voted to authorize a microtransit design study, approving a piggyback agreement with Alfred Benesec & Company for up to $74,332 to analyze service gaps and identify pilot areas where on‑demand microtransit could feed the fixed‑route system.

Advocates from Justice Knox and allied groups urged the measure, saying thousands of Knoxville households lack reliable access to transit and that microtransit could connect people to jobs, health care and groceries. "We respectfully ask that you vote yes in support of this microtransit design study because this is a step toward dignity, access, and opportunity for so many in our city," Mary Alice Richardson said during the public comment period.

Isaac Thorne, director of Knoxville Area Transit, told council the study will build on CAT’s recent Reimagine effort and focus on gaps in paratransit and lift services that currently leave "transit deserts." "What we're trying to do is look at those gaps and see how we can feed into the fixed route system," Thorne said. He also explained the city's legal obligation to provide ADA paratransit and that current lift services are being evaluated alongside potential microtransit solutions: "If you qualify for Lyft, we have to provide you transit service... That is our top priority." (Isaac Thorne.)

Council members asked about driver concerns and the relationship between microtransit, Lyft‑based ADA service and existing vehicles; Thorne said the study will examine commingling options and how to deploy passenger vans in some areas.

The motion carried by voice vote. Council members and public speakers said they expect the study to return recommendations for pilot areas and funding scenarios for council consideration.