SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – As Seminole County is getting ready to launch an on-demand public transportation system, “SCOUT” ambassadors are working to answer questions about the new service.
This week, the county is holding outreach sessions at public library branches to give one-on-one assistance with app downloads and account setup.
Rick Trudo stopped by the Northwest Branch Library on Monday to learn more details about the service.
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“I think this is going to be something that’s going to be well taken by most of the people in the county,” Trudo said. “It’s a lot more convenient than taking a car, trying to find a parking spot when you’re going to some of these places.”
In May, the county contracted with Freebee to develop a service starting with 35 vehicles that would take people where they need to go within several zones.
Riders will eventually be able to make a request with a smartphone app or by calling a designated phone line, and a shared shuttle or van will pick them up and take them curb-to-curb.
In August, commissioners approved a fare structure, which begins with a $4 base price for a ride within the same zone. The price goes up as you travel to different zones, bringing the total to $7 for one-zone transfer, a $10 total for a two-zone transfer, or a total of $14 for a three-zone transfer.
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There are discounts available for seniors 65 and older, students and low-income riders. There are also discounts if someone books through the app or if the pickup or drop off is at the nearest SunRail station during operating hours.
Another outreach session is scheduled from 2-5 p.m. on October 16 at the East Branch Library at 310 N. Division Street in Oviedo.
“SCOUT” began its soft launch in September and will officially launch service throughout most areas of Seminole County on October 15.
For more details about the transportation service, visit www.scoutseminolefl.com