Seminole County is taking steps to improve its SCOUT transportation service by seeking a grant of up to $1.5 million from the Florida Department of Transportation. The county aims to expand its on-demand public transportation system, which operates similarly to rideshare services, to reduce long wait times for riders.
Enhancing Local Mobility
The proposed funding would allow the county to add seven new SCOUT vehicles to its fleet. According to Seminole County Commissioner Lee Constantine, the investment would also enhance the software that powers the system, which currently serves over 1,000 people daily. The goal is to address one of the system’s biggest challenges: wait times, which average about an hour.
Incorporating advanced technology, including artificial intelligence, is part of the plan to improve trip coordination and efficiency. “Integrate the system so that when you have someone going to a location, it’s easier to identify another person going close to that location,” Constantine explained.
Focus on Accessibility
Another priority for the expansion is increasing the number of ADA-accessible vehicles in the fleet. “More and more of our people with special needs, or handicapped, are using SCOUT,” Constantine noted. The expansion would also support a new service area connecting Seminole County to the University of Central Florida, benefiting students who commute from Seminole County.
However, some local business owners, like Derek Hartwigsen of Rita’s Café, express skepticism about whether the proposed expansion will meet the growing demand. “Seven vehicles — no. The demand is higher than seven vehicles,” Hartwigsen said, suggesting that the county should continue evaluating the program before making further investments.
The Seminole County commissioners are expected to vote on the grant request next Tuesday. If approved, the funding could become available as early as July, potentially enhancing mobility options for residents across the county.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
