Descriptions of Types of Transit Services

Types of transit service can be described as: 

• Fixed-Route: A bus that follows a designated route with set stops and schedules. This type of service can carry more passengers, and riders do not have to reserve a ride in advance (unless requesting deviation). However, given the service has set routes and schedules, it is less flexible than other service options. Services like Link Lane, Lane Transit District, Rhody Express, and others are fixed-routes. 
• Deviated Fixed-Route: Some fixed routes can be deviated, where riders can request in advance a pick-up or drop-off nearby the route (typically less than one mile from the route).  
• On-Demand/Paratransit/Microtransit: Smaller bus or van that provides curb-to-curb service by request, and typically must be scheduled in advance.  Service areas can be larger and more flexible. However, they carry fewer riders than fixed-route options. RideSource is a paratransit service that provides dial-a-ride services limited to people aged 65 and over or for people with disabilities in the LTD boundary.  
• Vanpool/Carpool: Riding together with others, typically for a specific type of trip like carpooling to work or vanpool to major medical or shopping centers.