FRTA vs MART Connects

FRTA is a new ride-share service that will help residents travel more easily within Franklin County and the North Quabbin region by offering: -Flexibility to manage trips *View upcoming and completed trips *Easily cancel trips -Convenient Trip Details View *Passenger notifications with accurate vehicle ETAs -Simple Mobile Interface *24/7 access to account profiles, settings, and reservations

The MART Connects App is a cutting-edge transportation platform designed to simplify and enhance transit accessibility for individuals, institutions, communities, and agencies. Powered by an automated scheduling and dispatching engine, this app integrates a wide array of transit options, including MART’s microtransit (on-demand transit presently fucntioning) and future integrations such as fixed-route services, paratransit, shuttle services, and even 3rd-party providers such as taxis, Uber, and Lyft. By consolidating these services into a single application, the MART Connects App offers riders seamless access to affordable and efficient transportation. The app’s primary objective is to provide cost-effective ride options by leveraging the full MART fleet and factoring in available subsidies from employers, institutions, or communities. The integrated platform enables riders to search, book, and pay for rides, offering a hassle-free experience while optimizing resource usage for affordability and sustainability. Frequently Asked Questions How does it work? The MART Connects App simplifies the transportation experience by integrating multiple transit options into one platform. Riders can enter their pickup and drop-off locations, select their preferred service type (e.g., microtransit), and view the most affordable ride options available. Once booked, the app manages scheduling and payment processing, allowing users to track their trips and view driver details in the app. What are the operating hours? The app operates based on MART's service schedules and the availability of vehicles. Specific service hours may vary depending on the selected transit type and location. Where does the MART Connects App go? To use the app, either the pickup or drop-off location must be within one of the following cities: 1. Lancaster 2. Sterling 3. Lunenburg Trips are further limited to a maximum distance of 20 miles. How much does it cost? The MART Connects App offers an affordable and transparent pricing structure based on ride distances: 1. Trips between 1–10 miles cost $3 2. Trips between 11–15 miles cost $4 3. Trips between 16–20 miles cost $5 Subsidies provided by employers, institutions, or communities can further reduce the cost of a ride. Why choose the MART Connects App? The MART Connects App offers a unique blend of affordability, convenience, and sustainability. It ensures that riders have access to a comprehensive range of transit options, all at their fingertips. By integrating booking, scheduling, and payment functionalities, the app creates a seamless and efficient transportation experience tailored to individual needs.