RTD has launched a pilot program in Denver in which Metro Taxi will add vehicles to RTD’s FlexRide program, providing extended bus services to address the first and final mile issues.

FlexRide uses small buses to transport RTD riders in the Denver metro area to and from RTD stations, medical centers and business parks.

Nearly 2,000 people use FlexRide every week in 22 service areas and 42 buses throughout the city.

Now, seven of those service areas will also offer Metro Taxis to supplement the service.

As of Monday, taxis will be available to the FlexRide service between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Belleview, Orchard, Arapahoe, Dry Creek, Meridian and North and South Inverness zones along the Denver Tech Center.

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“This pilot is another way RTD is adapting to the needs of its customers,” said Michael Ford with RTD.

“This creates a convenient and comprehensive circulator service that provides DTC employees and residents an option to leave their cars at their workplace or home.”

Ford said the taxis will be deployed when regular FlexRide buses are full or unavailable.

The taxis will also be used as a more cost-effective option for RTD than the regular buses, as the smaller vehicles can accommodate periods of slow demand more efficiently than bus fleets.

Customers can book FlexRide and Metro Taxi trips via the FlexRide app or via FlexRide MobilityDR.

MobilityDR will determine whether a FlexRide or Metro Taxi is best for a trip and will send an RTD vehicle or taxi. The service also sends customers estimated time of arrival and license plate numbers of the pickup vehicle.

“This differs from almost all other such pilots across the country where the customer must choose among service provider options before booking and the transit agency may not be able to realize a savings,” Ford said.

FlexRide and Metro Taxi is available to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations can be made by calling RTD’s Customer Care team at 303-299-6000. Fares are $3 for a one-way trip.