Transit service to make Elgin debut

Elgin will welcome in a new on-demand transit service next week, offering residents free transportation around the city for a limited time.

CARTS NOW, introduced by the Capital Area Rural Transportation System, will allow residents within its service area to request rides via a mobile app and will provide pickups within 15 to 20 minutes of booking. To encourage community engagement and adoption, CARTS NOW will be free for the first 90 days.

The service utilizes technology from Via, a global leader in TransitTech. Via’s intelligent algorithms match multiple riders heading in the same direction for efficient shared trips, eliminating the need for fixed schedules or routes typical of traditional transit systems, according to the provider.

CARTS has served the rural areas surrounding Austin since 1978, covering a 7,000-squaremile area across nine counties, including Bastrop, Blanco, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Hays, Lee, Travis and Williamson. Via’s software is used in over 500 communities across more than 35 countries, enhancing transportation systems worldwide, a report said.

A ribbon cutting ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 12, 3:30 p.m. at Elgin Station, 200 Central Ave. The launch event will allow attendees to explore the new CARTS NOW van, enjoy refreshments and participate in activities. The ceremony will feature speeches from Mayor Theresa McShan, City Manager Tom Mattis and CARTS General Manager David Marsh.