Council hears microtransit feasibility study proposing hybrid fixed‑route plus on‑demand service; workshop, no vote

The council received a final Madera Metro microtransit feasibility report on May 20 but took no vote, treating the presentation as a workshop and directing staff to gather more public feedback.

Flex Links consultants Josh Albertson and Steve Wilks recommended a hybrid approach: keep two modified fixed routes along core corridors and transition two underperforming routes to an on‑demand microtransit zone that expands and modernizes the city’s existing dial‑a‑ride service. The proposed microtransit service would emphasize app‑based booking with a phone‑in option, real‑time vehicle tracking, shared rides using branded vans and the ability to broker trips (for example to Fresno) through third‑party providers when demand is low. Consultants projected small annual operating savings (about $71,000), shorter wait times on fixed routes (shorter headways on the busiest corridor), potential ridership gains if marketing and travel training are effective, and a lower cost per trip.

Council members raised accessibility and technology concerns and asked for robust outreach and training — particularly for riders who rely on curbside boarding, do not have smartphones, or need door‑to‑door ADA service. Staff and consultants emphasized that phone booking and ADA service would remain available and that the transition should be phased and include customer outreach, travel training and an evaluation period. Council members also discussed procurement options (using existing operator fleet vs. turnkey vendor that supplies vehicles and software), integration with future electrification goals and the need to require experienced vendors with proven platforms.

Outcome: No formal action; council asked staff to collect additional public feedback, refine vendor and procurement options, and return with a recommended implementation plan and possible vote at a later meeting.