New Braunfels, December 18, 2025
New Braunfels, Texas has introduced ‘Ride the Rio!’, an innovative microtransit service that provides on-demand transportation to residents. Starting November 18, this service operates daily from 7 AM to 8 PM offering free rides until the end of the year. It ensures accessibility for all, including those with disabilities, and aims to enhance public transit in response to rising demand for flexible transport options in the growing community.
New Braunfels Introduces ‘Ride the Rio!’ for Improved Transit
New Braunfels, Texas – The city of New Braunfels has launched ‘Ride the Rio!’, an innovative on-demand microtransit service aimed at enhancing public transportation accessibility for its residents. This service commenced operations on November 18, 2025, and represents a proactive step to address the growing demand for flexible and affordable transportation options in the community.
Service Details
‘Ride the Rio!’ operates daily from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, providing door-to-door or curb-to-curb rides within its designated service area. Residents can book trips either through a smartphone app or by calling the dispatch number at 830-282-3413. The service caters to all riders, including those with disabilities, as half of the vehicles are fully accessible. For trips beyond the service area, residents can turn to the regional partner, Alamo Regional Transit (ART), to complete their journeys.
Pricing Structure
To encourage utilization, all rides are free until December 31, 2025, after which a flat fare of $4 per ride will be implemented. Discounts will be available, bringing the fare to $2 for seniors, veterans, university students, and individuals with disabilities. This pricing strategy is designed to ensure transportation remains within reach for a broad spectrum of the community, especially those who may face economic challenges.
Background and Implementation
The introduction of ‘Ride the Rio!’ aligns with New Braunfels’ broader strategy to improve public transit in response to the city’s rapid population growth. In November 2023, city officials endorsed a hybrid transit plan that marries on-demand services like ‘Ride the Rio!’ with traditional fixed-route bus services. This model maintains the benefits of flexibility while being less costly than a comprehensive fixed-route system. The microtransit initiative is funded through various sources, including federal, state, and local resources, leveraging the American Rescue Plan Act funds alongside recognition as a ‘small urbanized area’ by the Federal Transit Administration.
Future Outlook
The service contract with River North Transit, a subsidiary of Via, will remain in effect until 2028. The city plans to reevaluate the service’s performance and ridership data during this period, considering potential expansions or operational changes based on the community’s needs. This forward-thinking approach illustrates the city’s commitment to adapting and enhancing transportation solutions as New Braunfels continues to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is ‘Ride the Rio!’?
‘Ride the Rio!’ is an on-demand microtransit service launched by the city of New Braunfels on November 18, 2025, aimed at providing flexible and affordable transportation options for residents within the city limits.
How can I book a ride with ‘Ride the Rio!’?
Riders can book trips via a smartphone app or by calling the general dispatch number at 830-282-3413. The service operates seven days a week from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, offering door-to-door or curb-to-curb rides within the designated service area.
What are the fares for ‘Ride the Rio!’?
All rides are free until December 31, 2025. Starting January 1, 2026, a flat fare of $4 per ride will be implemented, with discounted rates of $2 for seniors, veterans, university students, and individuals with disabilities.
What is the service area for ‘Ride the Rio!’?
The service area encompasses most of the city limits and parts of the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction, excluding extensions along Krueger Canyon Road and FM 306. For trips outside this area, residents can rely on the regional partner, Alamo Regional Transit (ART).
How is ‘Ride the Rio!’ funded?
The service is funded through a combination of federal, state, and local resources, including the American Rescue Plan Act funds and the New Braunfels Transit District’s designation as a ‘small urbanized area’ by the Federal Transit Administration.
Key Features of ‘Ride the Rio!’ Microtransit Service
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Service Hours | 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM, seven days a week |
| Booking Methods | Smartphone app or phone call to 830-282-3413 |
| Service Area | Most of New Braunfels city limits and parts of the extraterritorial jurisdiction, excluding extensions along Krueger Canyon Road and FM 306 |
| Pricing | Free until December 31, 2025; $4 per ride starting January 1, 2026; $2 discounted rate for seniors, veterans, university students, and individuals with disabilities |
| Accessibility | Half of the vehicles are fully accessible for riders with disabilities |
| Funding Sources | Federal, state, and local resources, including American Rescue Plan Act funds and the New Braunfels Transit District’s designation as a ‘small urbanized area’ by the Federal Transit Administration |
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