Fort Bragg Will Offer Free Point-to-Point Rides Next Summer

Fort Bragg will launch a free, on-demand ride service called the Bragg Connector next summer. The microtransit program allows service members, families, and civilian employees to request trips through a mobile app. This system functions similarly to a commercial rideshare rather than a fixed-route bus.

The initiative addresses travel times across the 160,000-acre installation. Lawrence Pico, deputy director of Public Works, noted that crossing the base currently takes 30 to 40 minutes. He stated that microtransit aims to ease traffic and improve quality of life for those living and working on post.

Planning began with a partnership between the city of Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, the Department of Public Works, Garrison Headquarters, and North Carolina Park Transportation's Integrated Mobility Division. Adam DiGaudio, Intergovernmental Military Manager for Fayetteville, explained that the city's role is to coordinate planning without reducing current Department of Transit operations. The goal is to create a new transit operation dedicated to installation residents.

The Bragg Connector is modeled after a similar system at Fort Carson in Colorado. DiGaudio said residents of on-post housing will be able to book rides from their front doors. He added that the service encourages social interaction by providing a reliable option for point-to-point travel. Potential stops include barracks, dining facilities, and the Child Development Center.

Demand for flexible transportation is expected to be high given the population of more than 240,000 service members, families, and employees. However, the program is still in early stages. The number of vehicles and the employee structure have not been finalized. Once these details are settled, the city will provide the Army with a recommendation and cost proposal.

DiGaudio emphasized that the community often takes routine transportation for granted. He noted that the Bragg Connector serves service members, family members, civilian employees, and contracted employees. Pico said the goal is to reduce logistical burdens so personnel can focus on readiness and training.

The service is scheduled to open as a free option next summer. It will provide flexible, point-to-point trips for anyone on the installation. No fixed routes will be established, allowing riders to travel directly to their destinations.