Microtransit 

This system is not currently in operation. CARTS is evaluating the feasibility of implementing a Microtransit System for the New Bern area and therefore, specific details about this service are still being developed. Feedback collected from Public Comment and Surveys will be shared with the Board of Commissioners at their October 20th meeting. Stay up to date on any changes by following Craven County on social media. 

Why Microtransit?

The community has expressed the need for a more flexible and convenient public transit system. Craven Area Rural Transit System (CARTS) currently operates the fixed route system between the hours of 6:45 AM to 6:15 PM, Monday through Friday. The buses follow a set path with designated pickup and drop off points, like a bus stop. Riders get on or off the bus at any of the stops for a fixed price, no matter how far they travelled. A fixed route system is predictable in service expectations but lacks the flexibility some passengers need. Many community members rely on CARTS to get to work, medical appointments, or groceries, but they have to travel to a stop then potentially wait over an hour for the next bus. Based on this feedback, CARTS is considering implementing a pilot program that would change the fixed route into a microtransit system. 

What is Mircotransit?

Microtransit is an on demand, public ride share service that operates similarly to a bus, but can be called when you need, and take you where you need within the service zone. Trips can be requested as needed by utilizing the app or calling directly. One of the vehicles will pick-up and drop-off passengers at the requested locations. Trips are provided on a first-come, first-serve basis but may stop for other passengers alone the way. Booking in advance is not required but is recommended.
Microtransit Zone
  1. More Flexible
  2. Faster Pickup
  3. Easy Booking

Passengers can travel anywhere within the service zone. Vehicles will pick up and drop off near indicated when booking. Compared to a fixed route system with bus stops blocks away, with microtransit, your front door (or close to it) is the bus stop!