LYNX Inks Partnership with Lyft for Ongoing ACCESS LYNX Program Improvements
February 14, 2018
LYNX will be continuing its commitment to enhance ACCESS LYNX service options by signing a partnership deal with Lyft, the fastest growing on-demand transportation service in the United States.
The partnership with Lyft will help LYNX meet the demand of its paratransit passengers during peak utilization periods by enabling passengers to rely on Lyft’s affordable and convenient service. The partnership underscores Lyft’s commitment to ensuring that those who need rides most are able to get them and LYNX’s commitment to investing in innovative solutions for the Central Florida community.
On Dec. 1, 2017, the ACCESS LYNX program switched to a mobility management model providing improved and more effective travel options and customer service. All call center functions are now being handled by LYNX staff and to date has provided better program management. Customers still book their trips online through WebAccess or by calling 407-423-TRIP (8747).
In the first two months operating under this in-house management process, on-time performance has improved from 85 to 91 percent and operating costs have decreased by 50 percent for those customers utilizing transportation network companies.
For customers who can utilize non-ACCESS LYNX vehicles their trips may be provided by bus, taxi and now Lyft. These options will allow LYNX to provide customers the most efficient travel vehicle, more cost effectiveness and increased customer satisfaction. Customers will be offered free travel training to learn how to use the program’s new modes of transportation.
ACCESS LYNX eligible customers are encouraged to obtain a LYNX ID for reduced fares on fixed route buses and NeighborLink. ACCESS LYNX discounts ticket books and reduced fare fixed route bus/NeighborLink passes are currently available on the new LYNX PawPass mobile payment app where riders can store value in an electronic wallet.
An ACCESS LYNX vehicle tracker app is in development for a 2018 release. This will be similar to the LYNX Bus Tracker app.
A fleet update is underway as LYNX has ordered 50 new ACCESS LYNX vehicles scheduled to be delivered within a few months.