RTC of Washoe Expands with Spare to Launch ADA Paratransit

Reno, Nevada—famously known as "The Biggest Little City in the World"—is a place where growth and community spirit go hand in hand. As the city continues to expand, so does the need for public services that are inclusive and accessible to everyone. Today marks a significant milestone as the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) of Washoe County officially launches its new ADA paratransit system, furthering its commitment to modernizing transit for all residents.

Building on the success of RTC Washoe’s FlexRide service, which launched with Spare in 2020, the Regional Transportation Commission is now extending its innovative approach to ADA paratransit. This enhanced ADA paratransit service will be a game-changer for transit riders in Washoe County. All 54 paratransit vehicles will feature optimized scheduling and routing. This upgrade means more reliable service and better on-time performance. Riders can look forward to shorter wait times, more predictable arrival windows, and an overall smoother experience for their daily journeys.

"Our partnership with Spare has been instrumental in enhancing mobility for our community," says Susi Trinidad, ADA Paratransit Administrator at RTC of Washoe County. "By modernizing our services, we're taking a crucial step toward providing equitable transit options for all residents, regardless of their mobility challenges."

Looking ahead, RTC of Washoe will further integrate its services through commingling, which means combining different types of transit services into a single, efficient fleet. This strategy will help better use vehicles, reduce wait times, and offer more direct routes, making transit smoother and more responsive for everyone.

Additionally, the agency is gearing up to launch an upgraded mobile app for riders, addressing a significant challenge many paratransit riders face: visibility into vehicle arrival times. Previously, without a clear idea of when their vehicle would arrive, riders often had to remain on standby to avoid missing their ride. The new app will feature real-time tracking, easy booking, and timely updates, giving users more control over their travel plans. With greater transparency and accessibility, riders can now see their vehicle approaching in real-time, allowing them to plan their time better and feel more at ease knowing exactly when their ride will be there, resulting in a more convenient and stress-free transit experience.

As RTC Washoe continues to enhance its services, the focus remains on providing fair and efficient transit options for all residents. The collaboration with Spare highlights the incredible things that can happen when technology and community needs come together.

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