Support Us Button Widget

GRTC completes launch of on-demand transit service

The fifth of five LINK Microtransit zones in the pilot program opens July 1.

RICtoday_LINK_HenricoTheatre_Launch_GRTC

GRTC representatives, county leaders, transit advocates, and riders gathered on Thursday, June 27 for a ribbon-cutting.

Photo by RICtoday

GRTC has cut the ribbon on the fifth of five zones included in its on-demand transit pilot, LINK. The Sandston/Elko zone officially opens Monday, July 1.

Work on the project began in 2021, when the company began a study to investigate bringing a microtransit service to the region. Now, fare-free services are available in five different neighborhoods: Azalea, Ashland, Sandston/Elko, Clover Dale, and Powhatan.

RICtoday_GRTC_LINK_Opening

LINK buses are wheelchair accessible.

Photo by RICtoday

LINK works more like a taxi service than a traditional bus route. Users simply open the GRTC On the Go app or call the LINK number, input their pick-up and drop-off locations, and wait for a bus to arrive within 20 minutes.

The service is active on weekdays from 5 a.m. until 8 p.m. LINK can take riders anywhere in the zone, including to a bus stop to connect with a normal route.

At the ribbon-cutting, GRTC spokesperson Henry Bendon spoke to the growth of the program since the first zone launched in November 2023 in Azalea. Bendon said the company has seen a 30% increase in new riders month over month — in May, the service provided over 4,900 rides.

RICtoday_GRTC_TyroneNelson_SandstonElkoVarinaHenrico_LINK

Rev. Tyrone Nelson speaks at the ribbon-cutting event for the Sandston/Elko zone.

Photo by RICtoday

Tyrone Nelson, who serves as chair of both the Henrico Board of Supervisors as well as the GRTC Board of Directors, shared his excitement for that day’s zone launch.

“As the supervisor of Henrico’s Varina District, it definitely means a lot to see our residents finally have access to free public transportation like never before in this region,” Nelson said.

LINK zones are designed to provide reliable public transit in neighborhoods that are less supported by fixed-route service. The pilot program has five zones, but the program could be expanded in the future.

More from RICtoday
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Richmond?
Advanced tickets are required to explore the millions of lights throughout the Garden.
Whether you’re looking for your next leisure read, a book for the whole family, or a thrilling fictional novel, we’ve got a list of books written by local authors in the River City.
Including gifts for neighbors, foodies, significant others, homebodies, students, and gifts under $20.
The fund was launched in 2021 with support from the American Rescue Plan Act — now, it continues with diversified funding sources
The “citywide blitz” should be complete this winter and will focus on the High Injury Network.
See who will represent Richmond on City Council, Richmond School Board, and in the mayor’s office after Election Day 2024.
From tai chi to college courses to candle-making, there’s plenty to do as an older adult in the River City.
We’ve made a concerted effort to orchestrate this roadmap so you can focus on finding the artists you adore.
The formal body advises city leaders on public art projects around the city — learn more and apply by December 15.