Medical District gets new app-based shuttle service

By Diana Fedinec

GrooveThe Downtown Memphis Commission, Memphis Medical District Collaborative and Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) launched a new app-based shuttle service Feb. 10 called Groove On-Demand. 

Groove On-Demand works like a minibus that comes when you want, where you want. All you need to do is download the Groove On-Demand App to your smartphone, open an account and book a pre-paid ride. It is like using Uber but because it is a shuttle, or shared ride system, the cost is very economical.

Currently, Groove On-Demand services the Memphis Medical District, as well as downtown and New Chicago areas, Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. The app is available to iPhone and Android users from the App Store or Google Play Store. If you do not have a smartphone, call 901-763-8422 and Groove On-Demand representatives will help you set up an account. 

How much does it cost? Your first 10 trips are free.  Standard rides are $1.25 per person with each add-on rider costing $0.75. Groove On-Demand honors MATA discounts at $0.50 per ride for seniors and individuals with disabilities who present their MATA card, and K-12 students with a Shelby County Student ID card. Discount riders need to select the “Special Settings” option in their app.

You can pay for your ride with a credit, debit or prepaid card or purchase a ride credit with cash at the Hudson Transit (444 N. Main Street, Memphis, TN 38105). If you opt for the ride credit, you will be given a promo code that you will need to apply in the Promo Code section of the App. For non-app users, call support at 901-763-8422 to have the code applied.

At this time, due to COVID-19, up to three people can share a ride. The driver and each rider must wear a mask, and all vehicles are outfitted with a plexiglass partition that separates the driver from the riders.  Vehicles also are professionally detailed regularly and drivers are provided cleaning supplies to wipe the vehicles down during their shifts.

For more details visit,https://downtownmemphis.com/groove-on-demand/.

For questions about the service, feel free to email  support-groove@ridewithvia.com