LEWISVILLE (WBAP/KLIF)- The Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) is requesting public feedback on the agency’s proposed GoZone on-demand rideshare service that will replace most of the agency’s fixed-route service. Earlier this month, DCTA’s Board of Directors approved the proposed service plan from River North Via, an on-demand service provider, and is now requesting input from the public.
DCTA says they did extensive research on options for enhanced service delivery and concluded that an on-demand service model would be the most advantageous service for both DCTA passengers and the agency overall.
The proposed GoZone on-demand rideshare service will cover areas currently served by fixed route and on-demand zones. In some cases, the proposed service will extend beyond the agency’s current service structure.
“We are looking forward to the enhanced quality of service, increased service area and extended hours of service that have been proposed for GoZone service,” DCTA CEO Raymond Suarez said. “The proposed GoZone on-demand rideshare service will improve the rider experience, enhance service delivery and build our efficiency as a mobility provider.”
GoZone will operate similarly to DCTA’s current on-demand zones. Passengers will be asked to create an account on a new app where they’ll be able to purchase tickets for many of DCTA’s services, including GoZone.
Passengers who don’t have access to a smartphone can call the agency’s customer service team to book trips over the phone or visit the Downtown Denton Transit Center (DDTC) to purchase trips in person. Below is a snapshot of how the service works:
For the first six months of GoZone service, DCTA’s fare structure will be slightly modified to accommodate the removal of Connect Bus fixed route service and existing on-demand zones, and the addition of GoZone one-ride credits (based on the purchased ticket type). After six months, the DCTA staff and board of directors will reevaluate the fare system and make changes if needed.
You can submit your feedback on DCTAfeedback.net to give your input.
DCTA will carefully review all public feedback after the public engagement process ends on June 25 and work through considerations and implications to ensure all information is presented to the agency’s board of directors in July 2021.
