New and innovative transportation service available — at VIA prices

A message from: VIA Metropolitan Transit

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.

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