Orange County has announced a new on-demand public transportation system in certain areas.
The OC Flex Shuttles will be similar to uber or lyft for public utilization.
OC Supervisor Lisa Bartlett says the one-year pilot program will allow people to share a ride in an eight-person shuttle.
"I can see seniors utilizing the service. Going from point A to point B within the zones. Or anyone who just doesn't want to get in their car to travel to the mall or to the doctor's office."
It's a one-year pilot program and four shuttles will be available for rides within two zones near Huntington Beach, Westminster, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, and Laguna Miguel.
"Call and set an appointment. Hopefully, within 15 minutes, you'll be picked up by the OC Flex van. It's $5 for the entire day and $4.50 if you use our mobile app."
She says the rides have to be within two specified areas which struggle with good bus service. The Huntington Beach-Westminster zone will begin next Monday. The south county zone will begin service on Oct. 20. The service will be offered from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday; 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.
``This is a great example of OCTA trying new ways to meet the changing needs of our community by providing alternative modes of transportation that improve mobility for our residents,'' said Lisa Bartlett. ``We hope that this innovative option will help introduce more people to the convenience and affordability of public transit.''