SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – Many Seminole County residents are adjusting to major changes in public transportation after eight LYNX bus routes officially ended this week, replaced by a county-run, on-demand ride-sharing service called Scout.
The closures mark a shift away from most fixed bus routes in the county, leaving behind empty bus stops that some riders once relied on daily. While a handful of LYNX routes remain in service, county leaders say Scout offers more flexibility by providing door-to-door transportation instead of scheduled stops.
[WATCH: Many fixed LYNX routes in Seminole County set to end]
Scout operates through a smartphone app similar to Uber or Lyft, allowing riders to request trips within designated zones across Seminole County. The service does not operate outside county lines — a limitation some riders say makes it harder to reach destinations beyond Seminole.
“I kind of think it’s unfair for them, especially the ones who are struggling, especially in today’s economy,” said one rider who uses public transportation regularly. “I feel like some of those teenage kids — it’s a lot harder now.”
[EXCLUSIVE: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s FREE) | PINIT! Share your photos]
Another rider, who declined to go on camera, said the change does not make sense for people who previously depended on LYNX buses to travel outside Seminole County.
Cost is another concern for riders adjusting to the new system. LYNX fares typically cost about $2 per trip and were free for many students. Scout rides start at about $4 for trips within one zone, with prices increasing the farther riders travel within Seminole County.
Wait times have also been a point of concern. In recent months, riders previously told News 6 they experienced waits of up to an hour or more for Scout rides. In response, Seminole County officials added more vehicles to the service, though some riders remain cautious about relying on it.
County leaders say the transition is intended to modernize transit and better match rider demand, but acknowledge it may take time to adjust. Riders looking for information on which LYNX routes remain in service can find a full list by clicking here.
News 6 has reached out to Seminole County officials for updated information on Scout wait times and whether additional changes are planned. Updates will be provided as they become available.
[MORE: SCOUT riders in Seminole County face longer waits but enjoy lower costs]