Greater Portland Metro is getting ready to launch an on-demand microtransit service in Scarborough later this month.
The goal is to connect residents to fixed-route transit, as well as to destinations outside the transit agency’s current fixed route network, according to a news release. A similar on-demand microtransit service has been operating in Falmouth for over a year.
“Widely available public transportation is essential as we work to manage growth responsibly in Scarborough as it helps ease traffic, serves our community and supports our sustainability goals,” Thomas Hall, Scarborough’s town manager, said in an earlier release.
In a 2025 survey, Scarborough residents identified traffic and transit as top priorities, according to a presentation made by Metro earlier this summer.
Scarborough’s population grew from 22,116 in April 2020 to 24,547 in July 2025, according to the U.S. Census.
Scarborough has steadily added to its housing stock with projects like the Downs development, adding more than 700 housing units of a projected 2,000.
Greater Portland Metro is southern Maine’s largest public transit provider, serving Brunswick, Falmouth, Freeport, Gorham, Portland, South Portland, Westbrook, Yarmouth, Scarborough and Bath.
Congestion relief
Microtransit is part of a larger plan that also includes new fixed-route service between Portland, South Portland and Scarborough.
The Maine Turnpike Authority committed $3.5 million over five years and the town of Scarborough contributed $65,000 for the two components, according to a news release.
The Metro service will likely overlap somewhat with one provided by Biddeford Saco Old Orchard Beach Transit, but with different destinations. Metro will coordinate with BSOOB Transit on the routes.
The Maine Turnpike Authority was particularly interested in funding Scarborough service because of transit’s potential for relieving congestion on the Maine Turnpike between Scarborough and Portland.
The project aligns with MaineDOT’s state transit plan recommendations to increase transit service, and to explore, pilot and implement programs to address the needs of underserved populations, as well as to leverage funding and partnerships to improve public transportation in the region.
The expansion is part of MaineDOT’s goal to facilitate the integration of numerous transit services, expand transit networks and create a microtransit option aimed at mitigating the first and last mile challenge faced by many transit systems.
Jobs and services
For Scarborough service, Metro considerations included existing and near-future ridership potential and access to jobs, housing, town services, community resources, health care and groceries, among others.
The planning process included public meetings in 2025 and a survey that drew 300 responses.
The on-demand microtransit zone will serve areas up to two miles from the fixed-route service corridor and could expand to new areas if feasible.
After the service’s launch, Metro will monitor on-time performance and ridership, with an eye toward considering adjustment to microtransit zones and bus stop improvements.
