HRT’s OnDemand Program Extended for a Month

By: City of Newport News

Rides are booked using the HRT OnDemand mobile app (available in the Apple Store and on Google Play) or by calling 757-979-2955. Once a ride is entered with pickup and drop-off locations, the system provides ride options for time and location. Riders are directed to a nearby “virtual bus stop,” located within a short distance and a driver is dispatched to meet them at that location. Customers are picked up in a van displaying the HRT logo and rideshare brand. Rides are shared by users; passengers will have a seat based on availability.

OnDemand operates Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. until 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. The ride costs just $2. Students enrolled in the Student Freedom Pass program and paratransit-certified users ride free. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available. For complete information, visit gohrt.com/OnDemand. 

HRT OnDemand is funded through a grant from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation and the Cities of Newport News and Virginia Beach. The goal of the program is to explore how on-demand transportation can be used to expand the region’s access to flexible, equitable mobility, and to make it easier for residents to connect with existing public transit options. Since its inception in July, OnDemand has provided 20,722 trips to 24,144 riders.