Miami-Dade County introduces local solutions for Metrobus riders impacted by new Better Bus Network service | Press Release

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava announces temporary partnership with Uber and expands MetroConnect service to enhance mobility in areas most affected

MIAMI-DADE ( December 15, 2023 )– Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) are announcing additional solutions to support riders impacted by changes in Metrobus service following the launch of the Better Bus Network (BBN). These short-term solutions include expanded MetroConnect service, renewed cooperation with neighboring cities and municipalities, an interim partnership with Uber to provide transportation vouchers for residents in certain areas where bus services have been altered and additional outreach sessions where residents will continue to have the opportunity to provide feedback on the new system.

"Since the launch of the Better Bus Network, we have been listening closely to our riders and bus operators alike, collecting feedback on wait times, ease of access, and alternative mobility options," said Mayor Levine Cava. "While many riders have seen increased reliability on their routes, we understand the need for accessible transportation options for all. We are excited to roll out these additional measures as a testament to our commitment to transit users, ensuring no one is left behind as we refine and improve our public transportation system."

"Our team is working tirelessly to integrate public feedback into the Better Bus Network,” added DTPW Director and CEO Eulois Cleckley. “Collaborating with Uber and expanding our innovative MetroConnect service allows us to offer immediate and practical transportation solutions to our residents. We're not just planning for the future of transit in Miami-Dade; we're actively shaping it today."

The expanded Northeast MetroConnect service is bounded by:

• Biscayne Blvd to the East 
• NW 183rd St to the North 
• Golden Glades to the West 
• NE 135th St to the South 

The MetroConnect shared ride, on demand service also continues providing first and last-mile connections in 10 zones Countywide. Residents should download the MetroConnect app to start riding or call 786-321-5842 to sign up and book a FREE ride. The zones are the TransitWay, Cutler Bay, Kendall South, Kendall North, Dadeland South Dadeland North, Westchester, Civic Center and North Dade. Visit MetroConnect for more information.

The Uber service, aimed at providing service support where Metrobus routes have been altered, will be available on the following routes:

• The discontinued section of (old) Route 135 - Miami Lakes Drive to Golden Glades 
• (Old) Route 42 - Opa-locka Tri-Rail Station to Douglas Road Metrorail Station
• Discontinued section of Route 104 - Dadeland North to Miami Dade College Kendall along SW 88th St, SW 87^th Ave, SW 104^th St, SW 97^th Ave, SW 112^th St, SW 112^th Ave, SW 104^th St. 
• Discontinued section of (old) Route 2 – NW 84^th St to 163^rd St Mall 
• Discontinued section of (old) Route 16 – NE 79^th St to 163^rd St Mall
• Portion of (old) Route E – Golden Glades to Aventura, including 192^nd St in Sunny Isles 

The Uber voucher program will provide residents a convenient and reliable alternative during the transition to the new Better Bus Network, ensuring continued access to essential services and destinations. DTPW previously partnered with Uber on a similar initiative during the COVID pandemic, the Go Nightly program, to ensure that transit riders using the system between midnight and 5 am had a safe, reliable option. Offering riders an alternative transportation solution that provided on-demand ride options for late-night essential travel, nearly 50,000 trips were completed.

DTPW is also actively engaging with cities and municipalities so that local transit services can address gaps in coverage and better connect to Miami-Dade Transit services, as well as scheduling additional outreach sessions in affected communities to gather real-time feedback. These sessions are a crucial part of the ongoing refinement of the BBN 1.0 version, reflecting the County's commitment to a dynamic and responsive public transportation system. Dates will be announced soon.

In addition, DTPW is working with the Mayor’s Office to empanel a Ridership Council in 2024 comprising important stakeholders including seniors, members of the ADA community, and non-profit and business leaders to serve as a sounding board for new programs and services.

For more information on the Uber voucher program, expanded MetroConnect, and upcoming community sessions, residents can visit Better Bus SHIFTS into Gear.

# # #

Link to Article