Rio vans roll out an hour earlier

New Braunfels microtransit vans will start running at 6 a.m. on Nov. 1. The change adds one hour to the beginning of the daily schedule. Service will continue through 8 p.m. every day of the week.

City officials cited rising demand for earlier rides as the reason for the shift. The 'Ride the Rio!' program launched in November 2025. It was designed to improve local public transit and give residents more mobility options.

The service has expanded since its start. The fleet grew from eight vans to ten. Drivers completed more than 74,500 rides during that period, according to a city news release.

Garry Ford, the director of transportation and construction services, addressed the change. 'Expanding Rio’s operating hours is the next step in providing reliable microtransit transportation,' Ford said. He added that the goal is to support residents heading to work, school, or medical appointments.

The program is funded by grants from the Federal Transportation Administration and the Texas Department of Transportation. Standard fares are set at $4 per ride. A reduced rate of $2 applies to seniors, veterans, students, and people with disabilities.

Residents can book trips using a mobile app or by calling 830-282-3413. Route information is available on the service website.