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RubyRide, a Pittsburgh-based startup that offers local transportation on a membership basis, has launched a pilot in the Jefferson Hills area, consisting of neighborhoods within sections of the Route 51 and Brownsville Road corridors.

The Ruby Ride Logo

With a name inspired by Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, RubyRide’s members simply ‘Tap tap tap’ to get safe, simple, reliable rides from local, friendly and familiar employee-drivers.

For a nominal monthly fee, individuals can join RubyRide and take an unlimited number of rides for themselves throughout a designated local service area, or “zone.” Rides can be scheduled in advance or on-demand via phone call or the RubyRide mobile app.  Other plans will be made available as well, including for kids older than 10.

“Accessibility to resources, such as healthcare and fresh food, has significant impact on community health,” stated Mary Phan-Gruber, CEO of the Jefferson Regional Foundation, one of the RubyRide project partners. “By providing reliable, affordable options in communities that are lacking transportation, we are able to impact the health of our residents.”

During an initial pre-launch period, RubyRide saw nearly 100 residents sign up for the program—a testament to the need for reliable transportation options.  The program is being led by Economic Development South and supported by a $120,000 grant from the Jefferson Regional Foundation.

“Through surveying our south neighborhoods, transportation has been cited time and time again as a major barrier for residents,” said Joey-Linn Ulrich, Executive Director of Economic Development South. “RubyRide is a game-changer for our communities.”

With partners like Jefferson Hospital, Squirrel Hill Health Center, and CCAC, along with planning partners of Clairton Cares, Economic Development South, and the Jefferson Regional Foundation, targeted locations have been established to ensure members can access resources they need. These include grocery stores, warehouse stores, CCAC South, shopping districts, and healthcare facilities. RubyRide has established zones to keep drivers close to the members they provide service for. While these zones create convenience, there are also opportunities for members to take select trips outside of the established zone.

RubyRide’s local, employee-drivers are screened and trained by the company, including background checks and drug screenings, to protect members and provide a comfortable trip experience.

While there are limited memberships and locations available during the pilot period and the service is currently limited to the Jefferson Region, plans for expansion and full-service operation are scheduled for early 2020. For more information about activating a membership or driving for RubyRide, visit https://rubyride.co/jefferson. You can also follow their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/RRJeffersonArea/

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