Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop says Jersey City will become the first city in the state to offer an on-demand bus system in partnership with Via, the world’s leading provider and developer of on-demand public mobility solutions.

Via is a private company that uses a mobile app to connect multiple passengers who are headed in the same direction, allowing riders to seamlessly share a premium vehicle. Via began in New York City in September 2013.

Fulop says the new commuting network looks to ease frustration among commuters who are often left dealing with overcrowded buses and unreliable NJ Transit schedules, while also filling the transit desert by providing more efficient connections within Jersey City.

“As NJ Transit continues to neglect the City’s mass transit systems, and without help from the state, we are now creating our own innovative solutions that will meet the needs of our residents,” Fulop said. “This is the latest step toward our larger vision of getting cars off the road, while creating mobility in neighborhoods that sometimes lack connectivity to other parts of the city.”

According to Via, riders will be able to hail a shuttle directly from their smartphone. Via’s advanced algorithms will enable multiple riders to seamlessly share the vehicle. The powerful technology will direct passengers to a nearby virtual bus stop within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off, allowing for quick and efficient shared trips without lengthy detours, or inconvenient fixed routes and schedules.