residents and visitors. Since stepping into her role, Winkelblech has been instrumental in developing Arlington’s transit strategy, overseeing initiatives that address both immediate needs and long-term goals. ON-DEMAND RIDESHARE AND SPECIALIZED SERVICES Leading the way in Arlington’s transportation network is its city-wide on-demand rideshare program. Introduced in 2017, this service remains the city’s primary public transit solution, revolutionizing how residents and visitors move throughout the city. Winkelblech explains,“Riders download an app, set up an account, and book a ride based on where they are and where they need to go. Generally, wait times range from five to twenty minutes, depending on location and time of day.” Unlike traditional fixedroute bus systems, this service offers unparalleled flexibility, ensuring riders are picked up near their location without the need to reach a designated bus stop. This innovative program covers all 99 square miles of the city and is vital to broader transit networks. Riders can seamlessly connect to the TRE commuter rail station and Fort Worth’s Trinity Metro bus system, expanding their travel options beyond Arlington.The service operates with a fleet of minivans, providing a more personalized transit experience. “Because we don’t rely on a fixed schedule, riders have the convenience of booking a trip at their preferred time, making public transportation more accessible and responsive to individual needs,” Winkelblech adds. EXPANDING ACCESS AND INCLUSION Arlington has seen substantial ridership growth since the program’s inception, with word-of-mouth playing a significant role in its expansion. Without an extensive marketing push, residents have embraced the service as an effective alternative to personal vehicles, particularly in a city built around suburban development.The adaptability of the rideshare model has positioned Arlington as a leader in on-demand transit, serving as a model for other municipalities exploring innovative mobility solutions. In addition to the general rideshare service,Arlington 129 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 04 ARLINGTON, TEXAS, TRANSPORTATION
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