The City of Cedar Park is rolling out a new transportation initiative aimed at expanding mobility options for residents through a subsidized rideshare program.
The pilot program, called “LiNK Cedar Park,” will provide reduced-fare rides within city limits through partnerships with Uber Transit and zTrip, an ADA-compliant transportation provider. City officials say the program is designed to make getting around Cedar Park more affordable and accessible, particularly for those who may have difficulty driving.
Under the program, participants can receive up to 10 discounted rides per month. Riders will pay a $5 base fare, while the city covers up to $10 per trip. Any remaining cost beyond $15 will be paid by the rider. ADA-accessible rides through zTrip will also cost $5, though those trips will not be capped.
The pilot program will reportedly be administered by TRIPPP Consulting for a cost of up to $800,000 over two years.
That means the overall cost to taxpayers will likely depend on how many residents use the service and how long the pilot program continues.
City leaders say the initiative is part of a broader effort to address transportation needs in a rapidly growing community.
“LiNK Cedar Park represents our commitment to building a truly connected community,” said Cedar Park Mayor Jim Penniman-Morin. “Whether you need a ride to medical appointments, shopping, or community events, this program is designed to make getting around safer and more convenient.”
Officials say the program was shaped in part by community feedback gathered during the city’s 2020 Transit Study and its Mobility Master Plan, both of which highlighted demand for more flexible, on-demand transportation options.
In addition to local trips, the service will also provide connections to CapMetro’s Lakeline Station, offering access to the broader Austin-area transit system.
Supporters say the program could be especially beneficial for older adults, people with mobility challenges, and residents who are unable to drive due to medical or other circumstances.
Chris Campbell, who oversees transit partnerships at Uber, said the program highlights how public-private collaboration can expand access to transportation.
“LiNK Cedar Park demonstrates how public-private collaboration can connect people to the places they need to go using innovative, on-demand technology,” Campbell said.
The city says it will monitor ridership and program performance during the pilot phase to determine whether the service should be expanded or modified in the future.
Residents interested in participating can enroll through the city’s website and receive monthly ride vouchers directly through the Uber app.
