New Para-transit Shuttle Service and Service for R&D Park

 

Mobility and Parking Services (MAPS) is proud to announce Howl-A-Ride, a new on-demand transportation service launching in partnership with Via in January 2026.

Beginning January 22, 2026, riders will be able to request on-demand trips from anywhere on campus to destinations in R&D Park and back again, providing a convenient door-to-door experience and eliminating the need to travel to the SAC Bus Loop.

The service will officially launch campus-wide on January 26, 2026, to coincide with the start of the Spring semester. At that time, Howl-A-Ride will fully replace the existing R&D Park fixed-route shuttle.

In addition to on-demand rides, Howl-A-Ride will also provide scheduled paratransit service, using Via’s technology to improve dispatching, reliability, and the overall rider experience. Riders will be have the ability to schedule rides at their convenience on the Howl-A-Ride app. SBU Transit will more efficiently utilize resources by co-mingling paratransit and shuttle rides to select destinations, while maintaining excellent service standards.

The R&D Park service will also be extended to include Saturdays, expanding access and flexibility for the campus community.

BENEFITS FOR ACCESSIBLE SERVICE RIDERS:

• • More efficient with direct service
  • Power of scheduling your rides based on your needs
  • Can be schedule by "arrive by" or "depart at" for convenience
  • Ability to schedule recurring rides

WHY IS THIS REPLACING THE SHUTTLE SERVICE FOR R&D:

• • More efficient service
  • Door to door service with no need to originate from the SAC loop
  • Service extended to include Saturdays

Requesting Special Transportation Services

 

STUDENTS: The Department of Mobility & Parking Services, in conjunction with Student Accessibility Support Center, offers Special Transportation Services for those community members who require an accomodation due to disability or injury. Please contact the Student Accessibility Support Center to submit a request for Special Transportation Services. 

EMPLOYEES: Employees may request accessibility accommodations by contacting OEA. 

 

Below is a step-by-step video on how to book a ride via the Howl-A-Ride app.

 

Download the Howl-A-Ride app here:

 

 

Note: Students who would like to use the Suffolk Transit Connection, but require Special Transportation Services in order to do so, may request such services through the Suffolk County Accessible Transportation Services at (631) 738-1150.