Reviewed by: Mary Helene Hall
4th Birmingham metro community adopts microtransit
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Microtransit in the Birmingham metro area continues to grow.
This month the communities of Irondale and Homewood announced they are starting MAX On-Demand pilot projects in July.
The successful local microtransit program was launched seven years ago in Birmingham through a partnership with the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham.
Cost of microtransit in Birmingham-metro is minimal
What makes the program attractive? The cost. In a nutshell, the program provides a low-cost transit option with a ride costing just $1.50 and 75 cents for additional passengers. The maximum trip distance is 3.5 miles.
The two new Irondale and Homewood pilot projects were made possible by grants from the Community Foundation.
“One of the keys to economic security for everyone in our region is access to reliable, affordable transportation. Research by the Brookings Institute showed that if you have a vehicle in the Birmingham region, you have access to a hundred times more jobs in a 30-minute radius.”
“We have been working intensively with BJCTA, Via, and municipal leaders in each city to plan the July 1 launch of the two pilot services. This is a landmark step forward, building on our playbook and success for the Birmingham microtransit service to create a more regional transportation system that effectively serves the needs of residents.”
Christopher Nanni, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham
Microtransit in Birmingham is growing and popular
According to the foundation, microtransit in Birmingham is continuing to gain riders and community recognition.
In 2025:
- 14,800 riders/month — up from 14K in 2024
- 12.5 minute wait, $1.50/ride, 4.8 out of 5 rating
- Top destinations: work, medical, school, grocery
Irondale and Homewood are the third and fourth local communities to adopt microtransit in the area. Mountain Brook became the second city added to the service in December 2025.
Funding for the two pilot projects from the Community Foundation runs from July 2026 to September 2027.
Have you used MAX On-Demand in Birmingham? Tell us what you think of the program on social media by tagging us in the comment section at @bhamnow.
