How It Works

Norman On-Demand riders can book a trip instantly through the app or by phone call, and Via’s algorithm matches riders headed in the same direction into shared vehicles. Riders will typically be directed to a nearby “virtual pickup and drop-off stop.” The result is an efficient transit option that combines the affordability and sustainability of the bus with the convenience of a taxi.

How to ride with Norman On-Demand:

• Download the “Norman On-Demand” app from the App Store or Google Play Store and follow the sign-up steps.‍ Enter pickup and drop-off addresses in the app.

• Wheelchair- accessible vehicles are available upon request.

• Riders will receive an ETA from their driver and can follow along in real time in the app to see when and where to meet their driver.

• Phone booking: Regular rides can be requested by calling 405-643-8638.

Service details:

• Hours:
  • Monday - Wednesday: 7pm to 1am
  • Thursday - Saturday: 7pm to 3am*
  • Sunday: 10am to 6pm

• Fares:
  • Norman On-Demand regular fares are $2 per ride, plus $1 for each additional rider.
  • During OU Student SafeRide hours (Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 10pm- 3am*), students ride for free.
    • To be eligible for the free student SafeRides, students must create their account using their official OU email address.
    • Student rides outside OU SafeRide hours pay the Norman On-Demand regular fares listed above.

*Outside of the OU fall and spring semesters, Thursday-Saturday service ends at 1am

 

More detailed information for how to use the service, policies and procedures, and a link to download the app can be found by visiting:

Norman On Demand

Because this is a pilot program, there may be changes to service area, hours of operations, or other aspects of the service while we focus the program to efficiently serve the needs and desires of our community, but we will always do our best to make sure you are aware of any planned changes before they are in effect. 

History of the Project

At the direction of Norman City Council, Norman city staff began exploring options for microtransit to expand the the city’s access to flexible, efficient public transportation in 2021. After thorough research and public meeting discussion during fiscal year 2022, funding for a microtransit pilot program was approved in the fiscal year 2023 budget. Following consultation work and requests for proposals, the City of Norman engaged with TransitTech provider Via by contract in June 2023 and finalized a partnership agreement with the University of Oklahoma in August 2023. The service launched on August 21, 2023 and approved to operate through August 2024. 

Staff presented an overview of the program with options for expansion and continuation to Councilmembers at the City Council Conference held on February 27, 2024. Under direction from Council, staff worked to revise the service contract with Via providing for expansion of the existing program for the remainder of the current contract which Council then approved on April 23, 2024. The expanded zone went into effect on May 1, 2024 and extends the zone boundary west to 36th Avenue NW/SW from Tecumseh Road to Lindsey Street. This decision was made based on an evaluation of the most-requested new destinations by riders which includes Ed Noble Parkway, Sooner Mall, Robinson Crossing, and more. In June 2024, the City of Norman, University of Oklahoma, and Via approved agreements for a second year of operations. Ridership from launch, August 21, 2023, through June 30, 2024 was approximately 25,000.