Getting started with the Breeze OnDemand smartphone app

Longboat Key’s islandwide transit system is here now that Sarasota County’s Breeze OnDemand service expanded on Jan. 29 to include the Manatee County portion of Longboat Key.

The expansion allows for a public transit system to go across the counties on the Key. 

OnDemand is a curb-to-curb ride-share service that operates similar to Uber or Lyft. The service operates from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.

The cost is $2 per person, but children 5 and under can ride for free. The service also has a Breeze Plus Transportation Disadvantaged program, where eligible riders have a discounted fare of $1.50. 

Rides can be booked for up to four passengers. Wheelchair accessible vehicles and vehicles with bicycle racks are available on request. 

Other users traveling similar routes may also be picked up during trips. Pickup time is generally within 30 minutes from the requested time.

To use the service, you first need to create an account.

It’s easiest to download the Breeze app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, but accounts can also be created online at BreezeTransit.net/BreezeOnDemand or by calling 941-300-1553.