Verbo, flechir, and anatomie, Vol 3, Issue 26

You guessed it - they all mean flex: Italian, French, and German, respectively. But why is LANta talking about "flex"? Is LANta flexing its muscles? Is LANta teaching yoga to their employees so they are able to become more flexible? None of the above. Effective August 29, 2011 LANta is implementing a new public transportation service called LANtaFlex.

LANtaFlex is a reservation based, curb-to-curb, shared-ride service provided by LANta which is designed to meet mobility needs in the more suburban communities of the Valley in the most efficient way. LANta Flex will be operated using smaller transit vehicles which can provide better coverage into more sparsely developed residential areas and are more appropriate for the expected passenger loads.

You may be wondering how this new service will work. LANtaFlex service will be available within a geographically defined zone during specified hours. If someone is traveling between two points that are within the zone, they can be picked up by a LANtaFlex vehicle and be brought to where they are going in the zone. If they are traveling between a point within the zone and a destination outside of the zone, or vice versa, the rider can arrange for a transfer between the LANtaFlex service and a LANtaBus fixed route trip at designated transfer points. LANta’s first such service will cover the Macungie and Alburtis areas and will be called Route 501. The Macungie/Alburtis Flex will be available Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. starting Monday, August 29.

To arrange for a trip on LANtaFlex, riders call for a reservation at least one day in advance (and no more than 14 days in advance) by calling 888-287-8818. This service is available to the general public and regular LANtaBus fares apply.

Important LANtaFlex Facts :

· LANtaFlex service is open to the general public. Call 888-287-8818 for a reservation.

· LANtaFlex service is operated with LANtaVan vehicles.

· LANtaFlex is a “curb-to-curb” service which means that riders need to be waiting for the LANtaFlex vehicle outside in a safe location that is in plain view of the LANtaFlex driver.

· LANta Flex is a reservation-based service. Riders will not be allowed to board without a reservation.

· LANtaBus fares apply on LANta Flex service. All LANtaBus fare products will be accepted on LANtaFlex vehicles. Riders can also pay one-way cash fares on the LANtaFlex vehicle or purchase a day pass. Those who wish to purchase other fare products will have to purchase them on a LANtaBus vehicle or at a LANta sales outlet.

Like most new programs, this may take riders a little getting used to. However, information will be provided to riders currently using bus services in Macungie and Alburtis to make sure they know what they need to do to take full advantage of this new, alternative service mode.