A new on-demand, microtransit service in Chandler, Ariz., could take over for the parental taxi. Chandler Flex, a new transit service in this Phoenix suburb will operate as a free service for students…

The city credits the program as “a good solution for students needing rides to and from school outside of the normal school bus hours,” said Crampton.

The service will be operated by Via, a transportation company operating on-demand, microtransit services in a number of markets. The fleet will include five minivan-like vehicles offering shared rides. Riders can use a mobile app to book a ride, or call a service number. As in other markets, riders will then be directed to walk to a “virtual bus stop” — which is generally a nearby street corner — to be picked up.