Getting around northwest Lexington just got a whole lot easier — and more affordable. Lextran, the city’s public transit authority, has officially launched a new on-demand microtransit pilot program designed to give residents a flexible, shared-ride option that fits their schedule rather than a fixed bus timetable.

The service, described by LEX 18 News as “like Uber, but cheaper,” uses Lextran vans that riders can summon on demand, offering a convenient alternative to traditional fixed-route bus lines. The pilot is focused on northwest Lexington, a part of the city where residents have long needed more robust transit connections.

Unlike a standard bus route, the microtransit model allows passengers to request a ride and be picked up at or near their location, then share the van with other riders heading in the same direction. The approach aims to bridge gaps in public transportation coverage while keeping fares accessible — a combination that transit advocates say can make a real difference for people who depend on public transit to reach jobs, medical appointments, and everyday errands.

Multiple local outlets, including WKYT and Spectrum News, confirmed the service is now live following the launch announcement. The pilot represents a meaningful expansion of Lextran’s offerings and reflects a growing national trend toward flexible, app-based public transit options that complement traditional bus networks.

For northwest Lexington residents, the new vans signal that the city is listening and investing in smarter ways to connect communities. If the pilot proves successful, it could pave the way for similar on-demand services in other parts of Lexington — giving even more residents a reliable, budget-friendly way to get where they need to go.

Sources: LEX 18 News, WKYT, Spectrum News