In Minnesota, paying extra allows Metro Mobility passengers to request a personal, on-demand transportation service.
The Carepool service, a unique transportation solution catering to the needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities, has been operational in the Twin Cities for approximately 18 months. This service, operated under contracts with transportation departments in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois, is a partnership between the Metropolitan Council and Carepool.
Unlike traditional ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Lyft, Carepool offers tailored transportation services addressing the unique needs of its clientele. This includes specialized vehicles and services, ensuring a comfortable and accessible journey for all passengers. While Uber and Lyft can be used by anyone, including seniors or disabled individuals, their standard services may lack the necessary accommodations like wheelchair-accessible vehicles or trained drivers for such populations.
Metro Mobility, a shared public transportation service for individuals unable to use fixed-route buses and trains, remains in operation. However, for those who require more personalised travel solutions, Carepool offers a viable alternative.
Booking a Carepool ride is straightforward. Customers can call 612-284-5204 or visit carepool.us. A new app is expected to be released this month, further simplifying the process. Rides can be booked up to a day in advance, with costs ranging from $3.50 to $4 depending on the time of day. A surcharge is added for trips of 15 miles or more, according to the Met Council.
The first $5 of any Carepool ride is paid by the customer, with Metro Mobility covering the next $15. If the total fare exceeds $20, the customer pays the remainder. This cost structure is similar to traditional rideshare trips for journeys not covered by private insurance or the Met Council program.
The Borealis line, operated by Amtrak, has carried its 250,000th passenger. Some passengers on this line have never used Amtrak before, demonstrating Carepool's success in attracting new customers. Daily trips on the Borealis line take approximately 7.5 hours from end to end.
Carepool is projected to provide up to 5,000 rides per month within the next three to six months. As of now, the Metro Mobility program has over 19,300 active riders each month, as stated by the Met Council. Riders can build a rapport with their Carepool drivers and request specific drivers, enhancing the personalised service Carepool offers.
The projected annual passenger count for the Borealis service was revised from between 125,000 and 155,000 to 232,000 passengers, reflecting the growing demand for accessible transportation solutions in the Twin Cities. Carepool provides a "caring experience" and allows riders to choose their drivers, setting it apart from other transportation options.
The Carepool service, offering personalised transportation solutions, is a unique alternative to traditional public services like buses and trains, such as Metro Mobility. This service, catering to seniors and individuals with disabilities, also distinguishes itself from ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Lyft, by providing specialized vehicles and services for its clientele. The Borealis line, operated by Amtrak, has seen an increase in demand, carrying its 250,000th passenger, many of whom were new to Amtrak, demonstrating the growing appeal of Carepool. As Carepool expands, it aims to provide up to 5,000 rides per month, surpassing the current active rider count of Metro Mobility's 19,300 monthly users. The service's success is not only observed in its growing popularity but also in the personalised experience it offers, allowing riders to build a rapport with their drivers and request specific drivers.
