The Marshall Liberal Government has launched the smartphone app for the On-Demand bus trials in Mount Barker and the Barossa, to provide better public transport services.
The 'Keoride' app is now available in the App Store or Google Play and will enable passengers to order a vehicle, when and where they need it, to take them anywhere within the service area.
The on-demand service, which will be operated by transport provider Keolis Downer, will kick off in both locations on 13 January 2020 and last for six months.
"The Marshall Liberal Government is continuing to build infrastructure and explore new innovative technologies to deliver better public transport services," said Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government Stephan Knoll.
"On-Demand public transport services will provide passengers with a faster and more personalised service.
"This service will operate in a similar way to most ride sharing apps than millions of people use right across the country.
"Passengers will be able to track where their bus is and order it to their location to save them waiting in the rain or heat.
"The Keoride app utilises a digital platform, developed by Via Technologies, that calculates the optimal route in real-time, based on trip requests.
"This means passengers will be able to track the wait time and vehicle location in real-time on the app and get picked up from their home or within 60-130 metres from their location."
In addition to the app, passengers can register or call 1300 642 604 to book the service, and they can also select a wheelchair accessible vehicle if required.
Member for Kavel Dan Cregan encouraged the local community to download the new 'Keoride' smartphone app to take advantage of this exciting new On-Demand public transport trial.
"This exciting new public transport service will help residents in the local community get around the Mount Barker area with much greater flexibility," said Mr Cregan.
"I've extremely pleased that the Mount Barker community will be among the first to have access to this new public transport trial."
Background:
The On-demand transport services are available in:
- Mount Barker on weekdays from 7am to 9pm and weekends from 9am to 6pm; and,
- Barossa Valley on weekdays from 7am to 6pm and weekends from 10am to 5pm.
There will be 4 vehicles in Mt Barker and 5 vehicles in the Barossa Valley providing trips in the designated service areas.
In Mount Barker, rides will cost $1.50 for adults and $1 for concessions, including seniors.
Payments can be made through on board MetroCard validators, or by credit card/debit card in the App. Riders that transfer to an Adelaide Metro Service will then pay the appropriate Adelaide Metro fare.
The Barossa Valley service will see a reduced price from the current Dial-A-Ride fare to new pricing of $6 for an adult and $3 concession (previously $11.60 for an adult and $5.80 concession).
Payments can be made by credit card/debit card in the app.
The app is available today by searching Keoride in the App Store or Google Play. Further details about the trials are available at www.sa.keoride.com.au.
As part of the Mount Barker service, Adelaide Metro bus timetables will also be integrated into the app to ensure a seamless interchange between the on-demand and metro bus services.
Local stakeholder groups will be engaged to provide information on how to use the on-demand services, while Keolis Downer drivers and operations staff will also be on the ground and focused on ensuring the service is widely accessible.
