A new, low-cost and convenient way to travel is coming to the 36,000 residents who live in northeast Wake County.
Starting this fall, GoWake SmartRide NE will offer on-demand, same-day rides to anyone needing to get somewhere in Zebulon, Wendell, Rolesville and the surrounding unincorporated communities. Users can simply pull up the Uber app on their phones to request a ride within the service area and reserve a seat on one of three rotating vans. They can also call GoWake at 919-212-7005 to schedule a ride.
“This innovative new program is part of our broader efforts to meet the county’s growing transportation needs, particularly in underserved areas,” said Matt Calabria, chair of the Wake County Board of Commissioners. “By introducing this on-demand transit, we will enrich the lives of thousands of residents by connecting them with local medical providers, the regional human service center, jobs, grocery stores, pharmacies and connections with commuter services.”
Once a ride has been requested, riders will meet the SmartRide NE van at the designated spot (the closest corner to their location) and will be driven anywhere within the service area. Riders will share the van with up to 10 people who have requested a ride with a similar route, comparable to an Uber pool.
Rides will cost $2 per trip. If residents need a ride outside of the service area, SmartRide NE will drive them to the nearest fixed route connection stop for free. Like all other public transit, this new service will accommodate wheelchairs and will comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Title VI Anti-discrimination Act.
The new SmartRide NE will have vans in service Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The service will cover residents in and around:
- Zebulon,
- Rolesville,
- Wendell,
- Riley Hill,
- Hopkins,
- Lizard Lick and
- Eagle Hill.
SmartRide NE is funded through the Federal Transit Administration Integrated Mobility Innovations (IMI) Grant awarded to Wake County in 2020. GoWake SmartRide NE was one of 25 projects in 23 states to receive IMI funding. The purpose of the grant is to support innovative technologies that improve access to public transportation, increase efficiency and enhance the overall rider experience.
More information and updates for GoWake SmartRide NE can be found at wakegov.com/smartride.
