FlexTransit

More flexibility. More connections. More ways to get where you need to go.

FlexTransit is ECAT's convenient, affordable shared-ride transportation service designed to complement Escambia County Area Transit's fixed-route bus network. FlexTransit provides an additional mobility option for customers traveling within eligible service areas and can help connect riders to ECAT bus routes and other qualifying destinations.

Unlike a traditional bus route that operates along a fixed path and schedule, FlexTransit allows customers to request a ride within the designated service area. Passengers traveling in the same general direction may share a vehicle as part of their trip.

Service Area

FlexTransit serves eligible pickup and drop-off locations within the designated FlexTransit service area, including locations within three-quarters of a mile of eligible ECAT fixed-route bus service.

Customers may use FlexTransit to:

• Travel between eligible locations within the FlexTransit service area;
• Connect to a nearby ECAT fixed-route bus stop; or
• Reach other qualifying destinations served by FlexTransit.

Trip availability is based on whether the requested pickup and destination are within the eligible service area.

View the FlexTransit service map here.

Hours of Service

FlexTransit operates Monday through Saturday, 5 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Service availability may vary based on the requested origin, destination, and applicable ECAT service.

Schedule Your Ride

FlexTransit rides may be scheduled up to 24 hours in advance.

Customers can schedule a trip:

• Through the FlexTransit app; or
• By calling the FlexTransit Call Center at 850-471-6657.

Because FlexTransit is a shared-ride service, the vehicle may pick up or drop off other passengers during your trip. Customers should allow adequate travel time when planning their journey.

ADA-Eligible Trips

ECAT is committed to providing accessible transportation options for individuals with disabilities.

ADA-eligible passengers who are scheduling an ADA paratransit trip must make their reservation by 5:00 p.m. at least one day before the requested travel date. ADA trips may be scheduled up to 7 days in advance.

ADA paratransit eligibility and reservation requirements are separate from general FlexTransit trip scheduling requirements.

For additional information regarding ADA eligibility, reservations, passenger responsibilities, and ECAT's accessible transportation services, please refer to the ECAT Riders' Handbook or contact ECAT Customer Service at 850-595-3228.

Fare

The FlexTransit fare is $2.50 per ride.

Customers may pay using:

• A credit card when booking;
• The FlexTransit Wallet feature;
• A FlexTransit Ticket; or
• Exact cash when boarding the vehicle.

Drivers cannot provide change.

Accessible Service

FlexTransit vehicles are ADA accessible and can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Passengers who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices should provide any necessary information when scheduling their trip so ECAT can appropriately accommodate their transportation needs.

Bike racks are not currently available on FlexTransit vehicles.

Traveling With Children

Children younger than 5 years old or weighing less than 80 pounds must travel in an appropriate child safety seat.

The accompanying adult is responsible for providing and properly securing the child safety seat.

Children younger than 13 years old must travel with a parent or guardian.

Travel Training

Want to learn how to use ECAT's fixed-route bus system?

ECAT provides travel training to help individuals who are able to use fixed-route transit learn how to travel safely and independently.

Travel training can help customers learn how to:

• Plan a trip using ECAT;
• Identify the appropriate bus route and stop;
• Read schedules and understand transfers;
• Board and exit the bus safely;
• Pay fares; and
• Become more comfortable and confident using public transportation.

For information about travel training, email ecat@myescambia.com or call ECAT Customer Service at 850-595-3228.

Questions?

For general information about ECAT services, accessibility, or travel training:

ECAT Customer Service
Phone: 850-595-3228
Email: ecat@myescambia.com

For FlexTransit reservations:

FlexTransit Call Center
Phone: 850-471-6657

Additional information regarding ADA services, passenger policies, and rider responsibilities is available in the ECAT Riders' Handbook.