Introducing Northern Lite: Eau Claire’s New On-Demand Ride Service!
Post Date:07/16/2025 4:32 PM
Introducing Northern Lite: Eau Claire’s New On-Demand Ride Service!
Getting around the north side of Eau Claire just got a whole lot easier. Beginning July 22, 2025, Eau Claire Transit is thrilled to launch Northern Lite, a brand-new on-demand, curb-to-curb transportation option designed to get you where you need to go.
This innovative program offers residents a flexible, convenient transportation option for the same price as a bus ticket; standard fare is just $1.75. Have an Eau Claire Transit bus pass? Use it with Northern Lite!
Northern Lite enables anyone to book and pay for an on-demand shared ride for travel within the designated service zone through the app or by calling to schedule a ride. The program is designed to complement existing Eau Claire Transit by providing an easy, affordable connection to and from the transfer center or to other locations within the service area.
"Microtransit has the potential to be a flexible, cost-effective way to connect more residents to work, school, and services—especially those who’ve been underserved by traditional transit,” Says Nate Otto, At-Large City Council representative. “If successful, Eau Claire will have a more accessible and inclusive transportation system for our community."
Book Your Ride!
- Download the app – the Northern Lite by EC Transit app is free and available for both iOS and Android.
- No smartphone? No problem. Book a ride by calling 715-202-6757.
- Get to your destination through the app or head to the transfer center to connect to a fixed-route bus to get you there!
How does it work?
- Once you book your ride, the app’s technology will match you with other riders headed in the same direction, creating quick and efficient shared trips that help keep costs low.
- Riders are directed to “virtual bus stops” (typically a short walk away from their pick-up and drop-off location), which minimizes detours and keeps trips running smoothly for everyone.
- The program will operate Monday to Friday, 6:45 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.
- Riders with mobility issues can request door-to-door services and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
- Want to know more? Visit the FAQ at https://city.ridewithvia.com/eau-claire
Northern Lite by EC Transit is the perfect solution for busy parents, students, older adults, workers on the go—anyone who wants to get around without the stress of driving or the cost of a car.
This program was funded for a one-year pilot program by the City Council using ARPA funding. The intent of the program is to trial this transit service model for areas of relatively low density in our community to better connect folks to the fixed route Eau Claire Transit bus system.
This pilot program is being operated and managed by Via Transportation in partnership with Eau Claire Transit.
Media Inquiries may be directed to Katrina Running, Eau Claire Transit Manager, by calling 715-839-5120.
