Chandler residents will soon see Waymo’s autonomous vehicles as part of their daily public transit options.

Waymo’s AVs have join forces with Chandler Flex, the city’s microtransit service, powered and operated by Via, a provider of technology to power public transit networks, according to a news release.

The initiative, according to a news release, is designed to expand Chandler Flex’s capacity as demand for the service continues to grow.

During periods of high demand, some Chandler Flex trips may be matched with a Waymo autonomous vehicle as opposed to a Chandler Flex vehicle.

If a rider is offered a Waymo AV ride, they will have the choice to book their trip through the Waymo app. Riders who do not already have a Waymo account will be prompted to initate one.

The partnership marks the first time Waymo’s AVs will be incorporated directly into a U.S. public transit network, underscoring Chandler’s ongoing commitment to innovation.

Chandler Flex is an on-demand transit service that launched in June 2022 as a part of the public transit network, with the goal of providing residents with an affordable, easy connection to jobs, schools, healthcare and other essential destinations across Chandler.

Available Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., the program allows anyone to book a ride for just $2 per trip.

For a limited time, Chandler Flex rides through Waymo will cost $1.

How to ride with Chandler Flex:

• Download the app: Search for Chandler Flex in the App Store or Google Play.

• Book a ride: Enter your pickup and drop-off, and you’ll be matched with a driver—or now, occasionally, a Waymo AV. Those matched with a Waymo AV will be directed to the Waymo app, where they will have the option to proceed with booking a ride based on their pickup and drop-off locations.

• Meet your vehicle: Head to your assigned “virtual bus stop,” which is usually just a short walk away.

• Riders without smartphones can book a ride by calling 602-932-0291.

The release includes comments from Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke, who was on City Council when Waymo started its Early Rider program in Chandler  in the spring of 2017.

"Chandler has always been a hub for innovation, and we’re proud to be the first city to bring Waymo’s AVs into our public transit network," Hartke stated. "Chandler Flex has already provided nearly 120,000 rides to residents. Extending our partnership with Via and Waymo ensures we continue to expand mobility options and lead with forward-looking solutions for our community."

Michael Vaccarino, the chief revenue officer for Via, said his comapany's long-term partnership with Chandler has already shown how technology strengthens public transit. 

"Working closely with governments is core to what we do," Vaccarino stated. "The collaboration with Waymo now offers innovative municipalities a chance to incorporate AVs as part of a reliable and accessible service.”

Annabel Chang, Waymo’s Director of U.S. State & Local Public Policy, stated in the release that her company is committed to making roads safer and expanding access to mobility. 

For more information on Chandler Flex, click here.

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