CHANDLER, AZ — Need a ride in the East Valley? Just call Chandler Flex.
The City of Chandler launched the new on-demand transportation service this week, offering residents a new way to get around.
The city says you can book a ride using a mobile app or by calling a phone number. You’ll be directed to a nearby “virtual bus stop” and a minivan driver will be dispatched to meet you there. It’s a shared ride service, so other passengers may be picked up and dropped off along your route.
The website also shows zones for “school service only” that include Arizona College Prep School, Chandler High School, Bogle Junior High School, Hamilton High School and BASIS Chandler.
"This particular minivan can seat, including the front we can put five passengers and our driver," said Mayor Kevin Hartke. "We're always looking for innovative ways to meet the needs of our community, and transportation is certainly one of those needs."
Think of it as a cross between an Uber or Lyft and a public bus.
It will be free during a promotional period thanks to a $2 million grant. The exact length of the free period was not immediately available and there's no word on what the fees will be after that time.
"It really will help those without transportation, as well as those moms who maybe have a kid who's got an after school sport program that they could either get to or get home from," said Hartke.
What to know:
- To get a ride, download the Chandler Flex app, 'Via' from the App Store or Google Play Store and follow the signup steps. You can also call 602-932-0291.
- Operating hours are Monday-Friday 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- The new service will operate in a portion of south Chandler, roughly south of Chandler Boulevard to Chandler Heights Road, and east of Price Road to Arizona Avenue.
