DCTA's GoZone service boosts ridership in Lewisville and Highland Village

The Lewisville City Council convened on March 3, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding local transit services and future planning initiatives. The meeting highlighted the performance of the GoZone microtransit service, which has become a pivotal aspect of the city's transportation strategy.

The council began with a review of the GoZone service, which has seen a substantial increase in ridership. In the past year, the service delivered 860,000 trips, making it the largest microtransit operation managed by Via in North America. The council noted that while ridership in Denton has decreased by 12%, Lewisville experienced a 14% increase, and Highland Village saw a remarkable 25% growth. This shift was attributed to the strategic decision to optimize service by reallocating resources from Denton to Lewisville and Highland Village, where demand was higher.

The council discussed the implementation of a new scheduling system for GoZone, which operates from 7 AM to 9 PM, Monday through Friday. This change has led to a 30% increase in ridership for the Connect service, demonstrating the effectiveness of aligning transit options with community needs. The data-driven approach has allowed the city to manage transit capacity effectively and respond to demand fluctuations.

Additionally, the council addressed the paratransit service, which has remained stable over the years. While it is one of the more expensive services, the council emphasized its importance in providing transportation for vulnerable populations, particularly for medical and educational purposes.

The meeting also covered the Trip Program, which has allocated $19.2 million for transit and transportation projects since its inception. The board voted to extend the program indefinitely, ensuring ongoing funding for future projects.

Lastly, the council discussed efforts to expand participation among member cities in the Denton County Transportation Authority (DCTA) services. The goal is to enhance access for residents across Denton County while ensuring that the funding generated exceeds the cost of service.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to improving transit services through data-driven decisions and community engagement, setting the stage for future developments in Lewisville's transportation landscape.