The city of West Palm Beach, Florida, launched this week its new electric public transportation system, called “West Palm Move”, which offers rides starting at one dollar and combines a high-frequency fixed route with an on-demand shared service.
The fixed-route component started on Monday, while the on-demand service is scheduled for September 15, once the technical tests and requirements for drivers are completed.
The program replaces RideWPB, the previous system that ceased operations on May 31 after nearly three years of service. The aim is to fill the mobility gap left by that closure while also reducing reliance on cars for short trips in a city with a high dependence on automobiles.
The initial fleet consists of seven orange electric vehicles, making them easily distinguishable from the rest of the local public transport.
The units are equipped with air conditioning, seating at different levels, handrails for standing passengers, and accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
The fixed route runs along the north-south corridor on Dixie Highway, connecting the Northwood Village area with the vicinity of the Norton Museum of Art, with a frequency of eight to ten minutes.
"The vehicles run every 10 minutes and go from Northwood to the Norton Museum. Everything else is covered by the on-demand service, so if you’re south of the city and want to go downtown, you can request the service," explained Telemundo 51 Jessica Keller, Mobility and Parking Manager of West Palm Beach.
Each trip on the fixed route costs one dollar, while the on-demand service has a fare of two dollars per ride and will cover areas of the city located east of Interstate 95.
The latter does not operate as a door-to-door taxi service: passengers would need to make their way to a nearby virtual pickup point, with a maximum expected wait time of 15 minutes.
Trips can be requested through the "West Palm Move" app, although the city will also enable a phone number for those without a smartphone.
The system operates from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm, and municipal authorities indicated that the hours could be extended until midnight in future years.
Cash is not accepted: payment is made with a card, smartphone, or smartwatch directly on board.
Users can track the location of vehicles in real time from their devices, an aspect that the city emphasizes as part of its commitment to the reliability of the service.
Keller emphasized the pioneering nature of the initiative: "It is the first system in the country that combines fixed routes with on-demand service and operates at high frequency. It is this high frequency that stands out. A wait of 10 minutes for fixed transport services is the best one can hope for."
The program is part of a trend of electric mobility in South Florida that includes projects such as Waymo's autonomous vehicles in Miami and electric air taxis to connect Palm Beach with the city.
By 2027, West Palm Beach plans to introduce a new fixed route running east to west, possibly along Palm Beach Lakes Boulevard, although the final route, stops, and exact start date have not yet been determined.
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