East Bay Paratransit is modernizing its paratransit software

We are currently in the process of replacing our existing software with a modern, integrated system designed to significantly improve our operational efficiency and elevate the overall passenger experience. This upgrade will enhance our ability to deliver reliable, responsive, and user‑friendly paratransit services.

What does East Bay Paratransit use its software for?

We utilize technology to accept reservations and schedule rides, optimize drivers’ route assignments, receive ADA paratransit applications and manage customer databases, record customer feedback, monitor program performance, generate reports, and much more. 

 

Why is the current software being replaced?

Our current software is obsolete and can no longer be supported by the current vendor.  

Who will the new software vendor be?

Spare Labs, Inc. 

 

How was the new software vendor selected?

Spare was selected through a competitive procurement process.  Spare’s system was determined to provide the best combination of value and quality to meet the needs of East Bay Paratransit.

 

How will customers be impacted by this change?

We expect the new software to improve our efficiency, and most other changes will not be visible to the customer.  You will continue to receive your night-before reminder calls and imminent arrival calls, and we will continue to provide floodgate messages in the event of an emergency.  Customers may expect some minor changes during our cutover to the new system, but our goal is to minimize disruptions to the system during our transition.

 

What features will the new system have?

Our new system will be deployed in two phases.
Phase 1 will introduce the modernized software that will replace our current system.
Phase 2 will focus on evaluating and implementing additional enhancements that further improve the customer interface and overall user experience. 

How will the new system improve efficiency?

We expect the new system to significantly improve vehicle route and dispatching. Under our current approach, staff must manually re-assign trips throughout the day as cancellations and service changes occur. In contrast, the new system will continuously optimize routes in real time, automatically adjusting to changing conditions and reducing the need for manual intervention. 

How will East Bay Paratransit staff and service providers be impacted?

It is important to us that our staff and service providers feel comfortable with the new technology.  East Bay Paratransit continues to work collaboratively with staff and service providers every step of the way to carefully integrate the new software.  Comprehensive training and resources are being provided to staff and service providers to ensure a smooth transition. New tablets and hardware are being installed into paratransit vehicles to operate the new software system.

 

When will this project be completed?

Phase 1 of the project is currently scheduled for launch as soon as Friday, May 1, with the final launch date to be determined after operational readiness testing is conducted in April. We look forward to providing our passengers with significantly enhanced travel experience. Following a successful launch, we will begin to evaluate and implement features that improve the customer experience.  

How can I stay informed about this project?

We’re excited to be moving into the final stages of this project. As we progress, we’ll keep this page updated with new developments. If you have any questions in the meantime, feel free to reach us at (510) 287‑5000.