Chandler to use $2M grant to provide disadvantaged students microtransit

PHOENIX — The city of Chandler announced it will use a $2 million grant to get some students to and from school through a pilot microtransit service system.

The van program will operate from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.  in the south Chandler area through a grant provided by the Arizona Transportation Modernization Grant Program.

The $20 million initiative to improve access to reliable and safe transportation for students was established in the FY2022 budget by the state legislature.

Officials said they hope the Chandler program can be a model to other transit systems following the two-year study and pilot period.

Students in the service area being proposed — south of Chandler Boulevard between Price Road and Arizona Avenue — are at a disadvantage because public transit options are extremely limited compared to other parts of the city and the Phoenix area, according to a press release.

The city plans to monitor daily trips to determine how many vehicles will be needed in service at a specific time, according to the release.

City officials also hope to gain more insight on the possible needs for benches, shelters and additional service in a specific location.

The program will serve students attending Chandler High School, Hamilton High School, Bogle Junior High School, Arizona College Prep Oakland, Arizona College Prep Erie campus and students attending charter schools within the area.

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