Centro Bus Launches New On-Demand Move Service in Rome
ROME, NY — The city of Rome is embracing a new era of public transportation with the launch of Centro Bus’s innovative Move service. This cutting-edge system combines the convenience of ride-sharing technology with the reliability of public transit, promising to revolutionize mobility for Rome’s residents.
A Symbol of Accessibility and Empowerment
On Monday, New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez officially unveiled the Move service in Rome. Standing at the hub on West Liberty Street, Dominguez emphasized that this initiative was more than just a bus—it symbolized accessibility and empowerment.
“This isn’t just a bus,” Dominguez declared. “It’s a symbol of accessibility and a symbol of empowerment. It’s our responsibility to keep public transportation accessible to everyone.”
How Does Move Work?
Move offers a fresh approach to transportation. Here’s how it works:
- On-Demand Rides: Unlike traditional bus schedules, Move allows users to request rides on their own terms. Residents can call Centro directly or use the Move app (available on iOS and Android) to schedule pickups.
- Group Travel: Move mini-buses will group together multiple travelers, taking them directly to their desired locations within the city. Whether you’re heading to work, the grocery store, or a medical appointment, Move has you covered.
- Affordable Pricing: The cost of a direct trip on Move is approximately $4. And here’s the best part: if you’re catching an on-demand ride to the hub to connect with another bus, you’ll pay only $1—the typical bus fare.
Testing Ground and Future Expansion
Christopher Tuff, deputy CEO of Centro, expressed excitement about the Rome service. “Move will bring public transportation to more neighborhoods in our community,” Tuff stated. “We’re looking forward to this being a success and continuing to grow in Oneida County.”
As a testing ground, Rome will pave the way for evaluating Move’s effectiveness. And while Rome enjoys this transportation upgrade, Centro is also considering the possibility of bringing Move to Utica in the future.
Enhanced Regular Bus Routes
In addition to Move, Centro has revamped its regular bus routes. Three fixed routes now connect the downtown hub on West Liberty Street to key destinations, including Walmart, the Mohawk Acres Plaza, and the Griffiss Business and Technology Park. These routes offer increased frequency, making it easier for residents to get around.
Centro’s commitment to accessible and efficient transportation is evident in this significant upgrade—the largest in Rome’s public transit system in two decades. As the Move service gains momentum, it promises to redefine how Rome moves, one ride at a time.
For more information, visit Centro’s official website.
