Lowell – In a groundbreaking move to support local businesses and their employees, MassHire Greater Lowell Workforce Board announces the launch of “GET A $2 RYDE.” The pilot program, in collaboration with leading transportation solutions provider QRyde, is set to test workforce transportation in the Greater Lowell area by offering subsidized rides for employees at $2 per ride.

The “GET A $2 RYDE” pilot program is designed to address the transportation needs of companies and their workforce in MassHire’s service area: Lowell, Dunstable, Chelmsford, Westford, Tyngsboro, Billerica, Dracut, and Tewksbury.

“This will help Lowell residents get jobs and Lowell companies get qualified employees,” stated City Manager Thomas Golden. “We fully support this initiative to enhance living and working in Lowell.”

The program provides numerous benefits for both employers and employees, such as:

1. Low Cost: removes high cost of transportation for employees
2. Eco-friendly: Encourages reducing the number of vehicles on the road, contributing to a cleaner environment and conserving energy.
3. Minimizing Payroll Taxes: potentially reduce payroll taxes for employers, making it a cost-effective solution for supporting their workforce.
4. Secure Data Network: QRyde’s platform integrates public and third-party private providers, ensuring a seamless and secure transportation network.

“We are responding to the number one employment barrier,” said Kevin E. Coughlin, Executive Director of the MassHire Greater Lowell Workforce. “This is not the full answer but it’s a first step to help more people get jobs.”

“Our MassHire Board approved this pilot project to focus our region on this priority issue for employers.” Said Danielle McFadden, Acting Chair of MassHire Greater Lowell Board of Directors.

QRyde offers a user-friendly experience, enabling employees to book rides conveniently through a mobile app or website. The program provides an efficient and cost-effective way for employees to commute to and from work.

“The main issue is cost,” said Himanshu Bhatnagar, QRYDE President and Founder. “Our goal is to provide point-to-point micro-transit at an affordable public price.”

Companies in the Greater Lowell area interested in participating in the program can contact MassHire Greater Lowell Workforce Board for more information and enrollment details.

For more information about “GET A $2 RYDE” and QRyde’s services, please call 888-575-6676.

About QRyde:
Located in Lowell, QRyde has developed and provided software for diverse transportation organizations, including statewide agencies funded by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), transportation brokerages, regional transit authorities, and private and nonprofit providers. QRyde resolves the unique challenges that different demographics pose for the transportation industry, and excels at responding to these differences with efficient, customized solutions (From QRYDE.com).

About MassHire Greater Lowell Workforce Board:
MassHire is centered in Lowell, MA and serves the communities of Lowell, Dracut, Billerica, Tewksbury, Chelmsford, Dunstable, Tyngsboro, and Westford.  Its mission is to provide the public and private sectors with job training and placement into jobs within the Greater Lowell region.