The Muskegon Area Transit System (MATS) introduced Go2 a little over a year ago as a way to help those who use public transportation in the Muskegon area to get where they need to be in a little more flexible way with an on demand app that gives them the chance to be picked up near by where they are and delivered to all of the essential destinations for food, medical help, rest and relaxation and more at a price that simply can't be beat.
Go2 is similar to Uber in the sense that you install an app on your phone, set up an account and let the dispatch know when and where you'd like to be picked up. The service area is currently in the "core" of the Muskegon Area. Muskegon, Muskegon Heights, Roosevelt Park and Norton Shores and the hours are 5a-midnight weekdays and Saturday 8-5. If you are not a smart phone user, you can call to get the service as well. From there, you get a nearby designate pick up location and you are off. Fares can be as low as $2 for those who qualify and if you would like a "premium" service, think along the lines of a recurring or reserved trip that you make regularly, it's only $8 bucks. It's an incredibly affordable way to get where you have to go. Go2 is available for both Iphone and Andriod Devices. Visit Go2 Online
Like any new service, the first year brought some challenges and MATS was able to adapt to them. 40,000 rides have been provided in the first year of service and from their press release - "May hit a monthly record of providing 4,500 rides in one month. A recent rider survey found that 25% of riders use the service every day, and 25% use it at least 1-2 times per week. Many of the most popular destinations include essential destinations, such as grocery stories, care facilities, and schools." It's an incredible positive impact on those who rely on the service and a huge step in the right direction.
Jim Koens is the Manager of MATS in Muskegon and he invited me out to talk about year one of the service. Take a listen.
Will we ever be a New York of Chicago that's dependent on public transportation like they are? Probably not. But making sure that essential services like public transportation are maintained and healthy is important. MATS works tirelessly ti improve their offerings and services for those who need the fixed routes or the popular new Go2 service. Please, make use of them. We're proud to work with MATS both as a sponsor and a partner to help keep Muskegon moving and you can learn more about their services by CLICKING HERE.