As of August 1, PonyPlus, a new on-demand, door-to-door shared ride transportation service, is active in parts of Monroe County.
The Monroe County Transportation Authority’s newest transportation service allows anyone to request a shared ride using a smartphone app within two designated service areas in Monroe County. For $2 per trip, customers can book a ride from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM Monday through Friday, and the PonyPlus app will confirm the trip or send a message to adjust the request based on the availability of vehicles. The service runs in the Tri-Boro Connector area: Delaware Water Gap, East Stroudsburg, and Stroudsburg boroughs, as well as the Pocono Summit Connector area: Pocono Summit and Mount Pocono Borough.
“This innovative transit concept allows our riders the flexibility for quick rides within two of the busiest areas of our community as well as the ability to use PonyPlus to connect with our Fixed Route buses to travel to other sections of the county,” said Margaret A. Howarth, executive director of MCTA. “This pilot program is the result of intense planning to meet the changing needs of the Poconos and will provide an equitable mobility option for all.”
Riders can now book a trip on PonyPlus buses via the PonyPlus app, which is available now on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android). Payments are made by using a credit card in the app or giving an exact cash fare to the driver.
“With today’s high inflation affecting everyone, PonyPlus offers another inexpensive transportation option to help people get where they need to go without busting their budget,” said Rich Schlameuss, assistant executive director with MCTA. “Within the PonyPlus operating zones, riders will be able to run errands, get to medical appointments, and visit with family and friends for $2 per trip. That’s a great deal.”
PonyPlus services are made available through The Monroe County Transportation Authority, aka Pocono Pony. All PonyPlus drivers have all been vetted by MCTA for the safety of our passengers. All vehicles are ADA accessible and have a secure position for one wheelchair. Passengers traveling with children under age eight must supply and install the appropriate car seat or booster seat. This pilot program is partially funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
Monroe County Transportation Authority, aka Pocono Pony, has provided public transportation to residents and visitors of Monroe County, PA, since 1979. MCTA, a small urban and rural public transportation authority, offers Fixed Route, Shared Ride, and Microtransit services.
For more information:
MCTA Phone Number: 570-839-6282
Website: https://www.gomcta.com/.