The Orange County Transportation Authority in cooperation with Via, said it launched an on-demand microtransit program, called OC Flex, that allows passengers to request and pay for shuttle rides with an on-demand app.

The pilot, which began in October, involves using 40-foot shuttle buses that carry up to eight passengers per vehicle. One vehicle operates in Huntington Beach and Westminster, California, the second in Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo and Laguna Niguel.

The program allows passengers to pay $4.50 per ride with the OC Flex Mobile app and is designed to help reduce vehicle traffic. The fare provides unlimited rides in each zone and free transfers to OCTA’s bus or rail systems.

After the pilot, officials plan to collect data to determine whether to continue or potentially expand the service.