The new MetroConnect service brings on-demand microtransit to more of the county’s residents and streamlines service to shorten trips.

Miami-Dade County’s on-demand transit service has a new name and expanded service. According to a press release from technology provider Via, the new MetroConnect service “is integral to the County’s commitment to the Better Bus SHIFTS into Gear plan, which is set to improve Metrobus service for more people with more frequency, as well as greater access to jobs and education throughout the County starting on November 13, 2023.”
The new program expands service to North Dade, South Dade, Westchester, and the TransitWay. “With a few taps on the MetroConnect app, riders can book a ride to be paired with others headed in the same direction. MetroConnect meets passengers wherever they are as long as it is within the service zone” and includes ADA accessible vehicles. “Since its inception, the service has increased the community’s access to 57% percent more jobs within a 45-minute commute by connecting people to Miami-Dade Transit hubs. The average MetroConnect rider books 10 trips per month, and 65% report they do not have access to a car,” states the press release.
On-demand transit has become a popular way for cities and transit agencies to expand service to more areas and connect residents to existing transit lines at a lower cost than introducing new fixed-route bus lines.
FULL STORY: Miami-Dade County, Via enter new phase of on-demand transit with more zones, free fares, improved UX

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie