Description
Mobility as a Service (MaaS) integrates various transportation services into a single platform, allowing users to plan, book, and pay for multimodal trips seamlessly. The software also allows for trip tracking, ride matching services, employer customization and reporting. Payment technologies include contactless payment options and preloaded mobility cards that can be used on various mobility services: SunLine, micromobility, shuttles, and other mobility providers.
Implementation Details
- Work with the South Coast Air Quality Management District, Riverside County Transportation Commission, and large employers in the region to investigate expansion of a single Mobility as a Service (MaaS) system (IEcommuter.org) that does more to target Coachella Valley.
- Coordinate with Cal-ITP to expand open-payment integration for SunLine services, regional bikeshare, and micromobility options.
- Launch pilot mobility wallets combining SunLine day passes with bikeshare credits for low income households, tourists, and seasonal agricultural workers in the Eastern Coachella Valley.
- Track VMT reductions.
- Prioritize installation of transit kiosks with contactless payment features at high-ridership transfer points.
- Use ridership and payment data to evaluate equity access and expand service areas with demonstrated demand.
Mitigation Potential
MaaS and payment technologies provides users with increased convenience making alternative modes of transportation more attractive and increasing usage of these modes. While there are not specific quantification methods for this strategy, implementing agencies often conduct surveys to estimate the realized benefits and VMT reduction.
Linked Strategies
Equity Considerations
Design Mobility as a Service (MaaS) platforms with multilingual interfaces and non-smartphone access (e.g., call-in or kiosk-based options) for digitally underserved populations. Incorporate low-income fare programs and mobility wallets into the platform to reduce cost burdens. Ensure first/last-mile options connect to transit in remote areas like Desert Hot Springs or North Shore.
Funding Sources
Funding for startup depends on the type and breadth of technology deployed, but maintenance is typically minimal compared to startup and consists of subscription fees and staff time. Funding sources include the Solutions for Congested Corridors Program (California Transportation Commission), the Advanced Transportation Technologies and Innovative Mobility Deployment (U.S. Department of Transportation & Federal Highway Administration), the Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) & Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Programs (Southern California Council of Governments), and Measure A from the Riverside County Transportation Commission.
Examples/Case Studies
LA Metro MetroMicro Program
This program is a convenient, on-demand rideshare service offered by the Los Angeles County Metro. This innovative transit option utilizes small vehicles, each accommodating up to nine passengers, to enhance transportation within eight designated zones across the county.
San Diego Regional MaaS Study (SANDAG)
SANDAG evaluated Mobility as a Service (MaaS) strategies for future deployment, focusing on combining public and private mobility services into one platform to simplify trip planning and fare payment