New and innovative transportation service available — at VIA prices

Public transportation in San Antonio is evolving with an on-demand service that gives riders more flexibility and convenience to get around downtown and beyond.

What you need to know: VIA Metropolitan Transit's service, VIA Link, bridges the gap between traditional bus routes and private ridesharing, offering an affordable, efficient way to travel.

Get up to date: VIA Link recently added a fifth zone, expanding into downtown, joining the Naco Pass, Mainland, Madla and Randolph zones.

What this means: The expansion, which began in 2019, makes it easier for downtown residents, employees and visitors to get around on their own schedule.

• The Downtown zone service operates seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Why it's important: This service marks a significant evolution in public transportation, modernizing transit by integrating technology and flexibility while keeping affordability at the forefront.

• VIA is committed to making public transportation more accessible and convenient for San Antonians.

The benefits: VIA Link offers flexible pickup times and locations at designated pickup spots within service zones in Northeast, Northwest, Southside San Antonio and now the downtown area.

• Rides cost just $1.30 per trip, with special promotional discounts available.
• VIA Link accepts all VIA passes and existing discount programs for added convenience.
• Riders can schedule trips up to seven days in advance or book immediately, making it easier to plan commutes and daily travel.
• Easily transfer to VIA bus routes for free.

Why now: The service addresses several critical transportation challenges in downtown areas. With its flexible, on-demand model, VIA Link…

• Helps reduce transportation barriers for residents, students and workers who live or work in areas underserved by traditional bus routes.
• Makes public transit more appealing to those who need scheduling flexibility but want to avoid the high costs of ridesharing.

What's in it for you: Booking a ride with VIA Link cuts down travel time with more frequent service and shorter wait times. Plus, ride comfortably with a guaranteed seat.

How it works: Whether you're visiting downtown, enjoying the Pearl, exploring the culture of Southtown or going to UTSA's downtown campus, hop in a dedicated VIA Link van to get where you want to go. To get started:

• Book through the VIA Link app, which shows all available transportation options, including both bus and VIA Link services. You can also book through the website or by calling 210-655-LINK.
• Pay for your ride directly on the app, with a VIA Transit Pass or cash.
• Go to the designated VIA Link pick-up point. Match the license plate provided in your mobile app.
• Show your VIA goMobile ticket or VIA Pass to the driver and enjoy your ride.

Looking ahead: This innovative approach could serve as a model for other cities looking to modernize their public transportation systems while maintaining affordability and accessibility.

Next steps: Download the VIA Link app to experience easier, more flexible public transportation.

• Get four free rides in any zone when you use promo code LINK25 before June 30, 2025.

Get around town with VIA Link.