SMART Expands On-Demand SMART Flex Microtransit Service into Northern Macomb County
New partnership with Richmond Lenox EMS brings flexible, on-demand transit to communities through SMART's Community Partnership Program
DETROIT, Mich. (August 11, 2026) — SMART, Southeast Michigan's regional transit authority, today announced the expansion of SMART Flex, its on-demand microtransit service powered by Via, into northern Macomb County. The new zone will be operated by Richmond Lenox EMS (RLEMS) through SMART's Community Partnership Program (CPP), bringing flexible, reliable transportation to a community where fixed-route bus service is limited.
Under the new partnership, Via will continue to provide the technology platform, rider app and call center support, while RLEMS will operate drivers and vehicles locally. Riders will use the same SMART Flex app and enjoy the same seamless rider experience already available in SMART Flex's existing zones.
"SMART's mission is about meeting people where they are, and this partnership does exactly that," said Tiffany J. Gunter, General Manager and CEO of SMART. "Richmond Lenox EMS knows their community, and by working alongside them, we're able to bring dependable, on-demand transportation to a part of Macomb County that hasn't had this option before."
The expansion is part of SMART's broader SMARTer Mobility plan, which will grow SMART Flex from five zones today to 11 across Metro Detroit, extending convenient, on-demand transit options to more residents throughout the region.
“Via is thrilled to be the technology partner for SMART and Richmond Lenox EMS as they expand on-demand microtransit in Macomb County,” said Alex Lavoie, COO of Via. “By pairing community-based operations with world-class transit technology, we're excited to help more residents access jobs, healthcare and everyday destinations with greater flexibility and reliability."
"This expansion is great news for the residents of northern Macomb County," said JP Rea, Macomb County Deputy County Executive. "Reliable transportation is essential to growing our local economy and connecting residents to jobs, healthcare and everyday needs. We're grateful for SMART's continued investment in our community and for partners like Richmond Lenox EMS who help make that connection possible."
"Richmond Lenox EMS is honored to help bring this new transportation option to the residents we serve every day," said Jeff White, Chief of EMS at Richmond Lenox EMS. "As a community-based provider, we see firsthand how limited transportation can stand between residents and the care or opportunities they need. We're proud to put safe, reliable rides within reach of our neighbors."
Service Details
SMART Flex service in the new Macomb County zone is available seven days a week, from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Rides cost $2 for trips up to five miles, with each additional mile costing $0.40, up to a maximum fare of $8. Riders who qualify for discounted fares — including people with disabilities, seniors ages 65 and older, and youth ages 18 and under — ride for 50% off: $1 for trips up to five miles, with each additional mile costing $0.20, up to a maximum fare of $4.
How to Book a Ride
Riders can download the Ride SMART Flex app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and follow the simple sign-up steps. In the app, riders enter their pickup and drop-off locations, then tap "Book This Ride" to select the option that works best for them. The app will show riders exactly where to meet their vehicle; pickup locations may be a short walk away, but these designated spots help make trips faster and more efficient. Riders without a smartphone can book a ride by calling 734-212-8429.
For more information about SMART Flex, visit https://city.ridewithvia.com/smart-flex-michigan, or email support-smart@ridewithvia.com with questions.
About SMART
Serving since 1967, SMART is southeast Michigan’s only regional public transportation provider, offering convenient, reliable, and safe transportation for Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne Counties. SMART offers fixed route, microtransit, and paratransit services for seniors and people with disabilities. These services connect people to employment, colleges and universities, medical appointments, and shopping centers. Through SMART’s programs, nearly 8 million rides are provided annually. SMART is supported by federal and state funding, local contributions through a transit property tax millage from opt-in communities, and bus fares. For routes and fare information, visit www.smartmovesus.org or call Customer Service at 866-962-5515.