Advance Transit Launches New Ride Management System for Paratransit Service, Expanding Flexibility and Convenience for Riders

Advance Transit (AT), the nonprofit public transit agency providing fare-free service across the Upper Valley, is excited to announce the launch of its new ride management system for Access AT, the agency’s ADA complementary paratransit service. Riders can now easily book, manage, and track their trips using newly introduced web and mobile applications—marking a major step forward in accessibility and independence, as well as an improved rider experience.

A New Era of Convenience for Paratransit Riders
Advance Transit partnered with Via, a technology company that offers transit-focused solutions, to implement this new ride management system. For the first time, Access AT riders can enjoy digital tools that streamline the reservation and travel experience. In addition to calling the AT office to schedule rides, riders are now able to:

• Book rides digitally through a secure web-based system or mobile app
• Track their vehicle in real time using an interactive map that displays driver location and estimated arrival time

These new features offer significantly more flexibility than the previous phone-only system, which required riders to call to schedule trips during office hours.

This transformative upgrade is made possible through a generous grant from the Mascoma Bank Foundation, which enabled AT to implement this modern, user-centered technology.

“We believe that access to reliable transportation is essential for building strong, inclusive communities,” shares the bank’s Community Impact Officer, Mariah Davis. “Supporting Advance Transit’s new paratransit ride management system reflects our commitment to empowering individuals with greater independence and improving quality of life across the Upper Valley. The Mascoma Bank Foundation is proud to help make this innovative step forward possible.”

Enhancing an Essential Community Service
Advance Transit provides essential mobility for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the fixed-route system, delivering over 8,500 paratransit rides annually.

Modernizing the paratransit reservation system is a major step toward improving the accessibility, reliability, and sustainability of this vital service.

The new system introduces several key benefits:

• Digital Booking Options: Riders can request and manage trips online or through a mobile app, increasing convenience and independence.
• Enhanced Scheduling Flexibility: Riders gain more control over trip planning, helping enable more adaptive and spontaneous travel within system parameters.
• Real-Time Ride Information: Up-to-the-minute updates reduce uncertainty and improve the overall rider experience.
• Operational Efficiency: Unified routing and dispatch tools streamline operations, replace labor-intensive paper manifests, and lower long-term costs.

Improving Accessibility and Quality of Life
This initiative directly aligns with AT’s mission to provide equitable, reliable transportation for all community members. By integrating modern technology into paratransit operations, AT aims to:

• Break down barriers to transportation with more convenient, user-friendly tools
• Empower riders with greater independence and control over their schedules
• Reduce stress and improve predictability through real-time information
• Strengthen community inclusion by enhancing access to essential services, employment, and social opportunities

A Commitment to the Upper Valley Community
Advance Transit’s investment in this new ride management system underscores the agency’s dedication to enhancing mobility for disabled residents and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Access AT services.

AT Executive Director Adams Carroll, emphasized the significance of this investment for both riders and operations: “Technology should empower people. This upgrade is about more than software—it’s about improving accessibility and strengthening our community’s mobility. We’re excited to bring these new capabilities to our riders and grateful to the Mascoma Bank Foundation for their support.”