Microtransit Service Receives Grant to Expand Service, Milwaukee, WI, 2022

MobiliSE has received a $4.2 million Workforce Innovation Grant to expand FlexRide Milwaukee, a microtransit service. FlexRide Milwaukee launched as a pilot in March 2022 as a first-/last-mile solution for commuters in the areas of Menomonee Falls and Butler, northwest of Milwaukee. This new grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation funds FlexRide Milwaukee from 2023 to 2024, expands its service area, and transforms it into a childcare transportation service. Specifically, working parents can be picked up and dropped off at specific childcare locations, easing their commutes for themselves and their children. In addition, eligible participants will also receive childcare subsidies and rideshare vouchers for emergency rides.

FlexRide Milwaukee has experienced significant demand levels, demonstrating its success as a microtransit service. Since May 2022, FlexRide Milwaukee has averaged 130 rides per week. The Workforce Innovation Grant can fund up to 750 riders and over 100 partner businesses and childcare centers. Depending on the success of this expansion, FlexRide Milwaukee can soon serve as a model for a mobility service that directly improves access to work and childcare.

Last updated July 28, 2022