Modern paratransit at scale: How MBTA upgraded The RIDE with Spare
The RIDE now runs on smarter routing and enterprise-grade operations tools while providing a modern rider experience—powered by Spare.

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What has made it easy with implementing Spare is having a modern architecture. The team has good APIs, good documentation, and modern databases. This has made it incredibly easy to get off the ground."

Mike Spicer
David Gerstele
Chief Digital Officer, MBTA

A new benchmark for enterprise paratransit

98% OTP

98% on-time performance

MBTA set new reliability benchmarks with Spare, achieving 98% on-time performance within the first week.

1 million+ trips annually

One of the largest ADA paratransit programs in the U.S., Spare helps the MBTA complete 1 million+ trips annually across Greater Boston.

5,500+ app downloads

Real-time vehicle tracking, flexible booking, and AI-powered routing provides a more transparent rider-friendly experience.

From legacy challenges to modern solutions

A screenshot of a cell phone with a map of a city.
BEFORE
Legacy software that limited operational efficiency and rider autonomy:

• Limited trip booking options
• Minimal visibility into rider account and eligibility status
• Fragmented, outdated tools
• Reactive dispatch and operational processes
A screenshot of a cell phone with a map of a city.
AFTER
A unified, interoperable paratransit platform built to scale:

✓ Real-time dynamic schedule and AI-powered optimization
✓ Open, flexible platform that integrates seamless use of Uber and Lyft
✓ Inclusive rider tools with modern accessibility features
✓ Advanced analytics and performance dashboards for staff

Having applications in Spare not only significantly streamlines our application processing, but it also allows us to more efficiently and effectively serve GATRA riders. GATRA can process applications in real time so riders can start using the service right away.”

Mike Spicer
Kylie Araujo
Executive Assistant
A people-first approach to implementation

How We Implement at Enterprise Scale

STEP 1

Discovery &
design

We work closely with agencies to understand operational nuances, rider needs, and workflows to design a platform that truly fits.

STEP 2

Configuration 
& setup

We configure features to fit the way you work, automating manual workflows and giving your team clear insight into service performance.

STEP 3

Training & change management

Hands-on training for staff, contractors, and support teams ensures a smooth transition and widespread adoption.

STEP 4

Go-live 
&
optimize

Real-time monitoring, continuous optimization, and post-launch support ensure agencies hit performance targets from day one.

Unlock modern, scalable paratransit with Spare

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