Karmactive Team
Starting Monday, October 26, Valley Metro is rolling out a series of service changes across the Phoenix metropolitan area, including expanded weekday RAPID service on two major corridors, the launch of a new on-demand microtransit pilot, and reduced fares for eligible riders.
The service changes bring all-day weekday service to the I-10 West RAPID and I-17 RAPID routes, with inbound and outbound trips running from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. The expanded RAPID service gives Phoenix commuters more travel options throughout the day beyond traditional morning and evening rush periods.
On the same date, Valley Metro is launching PHXLink, a new on-demand, shared-ride microtransit pilot designed to connect riders to local destinations and other transit services. Through the PHXLink mobile app or by phone, riders can book a trip and meet their vehicle at a nearby virtual stop. Trips within designated PHXLink service zones cost two dollars.
Eligible riders will also benefit from new reduced fares on RAPID and Express routes beginning October 26. Riders who hold a reduced-fare Copper Card or use the Valley Metro app will have their accounts updated automatically and will not need to take any action to receive the reduced fare.
Several other Valley Metro routes are undergoing schedule adjustments in conjunction with the October 26 service changes, and Valley Metro recommends that riders check their routes and schedules online or through the Valley Metro mobile app before October 26 to confirm whether their service has been affected.
The three separate changes take effect simultaneously but address different aspects of the Valley’s transit network. Riders accustomed to traditional peak-hour RAPID service should note that the routes now run all day. Those interested in the PHXLink pilot can check the official service-change information to see whether the microtransit zones cover their travel needs.
