WeDriveU wins Collier Area Transit contract in Florida

WeDriveU won a contract to run Collier Area Transit’s fixed-route, paratransit and demand-response services in Collier County, Florida, starting Oct. 1, 2026. The five-year deal is aimed at improving operations, rider experience and service delivery for about 850,000 annual passengers.

Why it matters: - The contract covers service for about 850,000 annual CAT passengers in Collier County. - The award gives WeDriveU control of core transit operations that affect daily mobility, access and customer service across the system. - The deal also signals a push to pair transit expansion with safety and technology upgrades.

What happened: - WeDriveU was awarded the contract to operate Collier Area Transit’s fixed-route rideCAT service, CATConnect paratransit and transportation disadvantaged Demand Response Transit services. - Collier County’s Board of County Commissioners ratified the up-to-five-year contract at this week’s meeting after a competitive procurement process. - WeDriveU will begin overseeing transit operations management, staffing, dispatching and community engagement on Oct. 1, 2026. - The company will run those functions from a new customer service center in Naples.

The details: - Collier Area Transit Public Transit Manager Omar De Leon said Collier County chose WeDriveU for its track record operating fixed-route and paratransit systems and for a safety-first culture that uses technology to improve safety measures. - De Leon also cited WeDriveU’s focus on rider experience, customer service and a workplace where employees are supported and empowered. - WeDriveU President and CEO Erick Van Wagenen said the company is committed to supporting CAT’s mission to provide safe, accessible, reliable, convenient and courteous public transportation services. - WeDriveU said the contract includes jobs for CDL and non-CDL drivers, dispatchers, utilities, customer service representatives, managers and other positions. - Job information is posted at WeDriveU careers.

Between the lines: - The contract expands WeDriveU’s footprint in public transit and adds another local government partnership to its portfolio. - Collier County is leaning on a contractor with experience in fixed-route, paratransit and demand-responsive service, which suggests service continuity was a priority in the selection. - The focus on customer service and employee support points to a transition plan that goes beyond operations and into workforce retention and rider satisfaction.

What's next: - WeDriveU will prepare for the Oct. 1 start date and open its Naples customer service center. - The company is expected to hire for multiple transit roles before and during the transition. - Riders will continue to use CAT, CATConnect and DRT services under the new operator once the contract takes effect.

The bottom line: - WeDriveU is taking over a major part of Collier County’s transit network, with the contract positioning the company to shape service quality, staffing and rider experience for years to come.