The Connector, a microtransit program started in Montbello, reached 100,000 riders Tuesday. It's a milestone for the city's experimental free on-demand ride program that serves people in areas lacking public transit.
The Connector began as a pilot program in 2021 Montbello and then extended to Gateway, Globeville and Elyria-Swansea for an additional two years. The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) said top destinations include grocery stores, regional transit stations and community centers.
"[I am] just really happy that folks are actually using it and we're getting additional single occupancy vehicles off our roadways, and providing important transportation for folks in vulnerable communities throughout Denver," said Councilmember Stacie Gilmore, who represents Montbello in District 11.
Gilmore said the program, which riders access on the Denver Connector mobile app, is working on expanding its accessibility to older people.
How can someone hail a ride?
Residents can also call 720-905-4438 to request rides in English and Spanish. The service currently runs weekdays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Connector has wheelchair accessible vans, along with vans with bike racks, hybrids and electric vans.
"I just want to really thank my constituents and the constituents who use this service because a lot of times in communities people might be apathetic as to government services," Gilmore said. "I just appreciate my community giving their trust of their children, their moms or dads or older adults, grandparents in their family."
