Verizon Business Partners With EZ-Rider to Replace Legacy Radio Systems and Close Communication Gaps Across the Permian Basin

The deployment of cellular-based push-to-talk technology aims to deliver more reliable driver-to-dispatch communication for the Midland Odessa Urban Transit District's more than 275,000 annual riders.

Verizon Business has announced a partnership with the Midland Odessa Urban Transit District to provide connectivity to bus routes across Midland and Odessa, Texas, aimed at creating a safer riding experience for the area's more than 275,000 yearly riders.

The transit service, locally known as EZ-Rider, operates fixed-route bus services, ADA paratransit, and the EZ-Connect commuter service between Midland and Odessa. The metro area, though isolated from other large population centers, has a combined population of nearly 250,000 residents across the two cities.

EZ-Rider had previously relied on a legacy radio system for dispatch communications with its bus fleet, dependent on local radio repeaters that left coverage gaps, making it difficult to maintain reliable contact with drivers in certain areas.

To address these gaps, Verizon delivered Siyata SD7 push-to-talk-over-cellular devices, powered by Verizon's network, together with the Siyata VK7, enabling EZ-Rider bus drivers to remain in contact with dispatch across the service area, including zones previously affected by coverage gaps. With these gaps eliminated, drivers across the full service area can now maintain a more consistent communication link with dispatchers, allowing staff to coordinate a rapid response in the event of an emergency, mechanical failure, or passenger issue, and enabling drivers to manage critical situations immediately rather than waiting to re-enter a coverage zone.

Verizon will also provide connectivity to routers installed on the buses and to tablets running fleet-tracking software.

"We're thankful for Verizon coming to us, learning how we serve the area, and coming up with the best solution to solve the connection gaps," said Adrian Renteria, EZ-Rider IT Director. "Now our drivers have the ability to keep in touch with us no matter where they are in the service area, keeping our riders safe."

"We are committed to supporting communities, large and small, by bringing them the reliable connectivity they deserve," said Minerva DeSchepper, Verizon Business client executive. "Whether it's ensuring the safety of transit riders or equipping first responders with critical tools, we believe that providing reliable, secure technology is essential to helping our customers meet their evolving needs."