DASH is a local microtransit service in Downtown Tampa offering riders an affordable and environmentally sustainable way to get around the city.
Powered through the DASH app, the service allows users to request rides between designated “virtual hubs” for a rate of $2 per person. Riders select their pickup and drop-off locations within the app, pay digitally and wait for pickup by a driver ambassador.
DASH operates Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m.
“Since we launched DASH in late 2023, we’ve served more than 100,000 riders and that demand really continues to grow. We’re really proud of that,” said Kenyetta Hairston-Bridges the CEO and President of Tampa Downtown Partnership.
The service emphasizes affordability and predictability, connecting riders to popular downtown neighborhoods without surge pricing.
“There’s no surge pricing associated with DASH. There’s no surprises and it's really a low cost option to get around downtown and we’re proud about that,” Hairston-Bridges said.
DASH currently operates five Tesla model Y vehicles, producing zero emissions and avoiding the rising gas prices.
With gas prices continuing to fluctuate, AAA reports Florida’s average gas price is $4.18 as of April 7, 2026.
“The gas prices are forcing people to want to take the shared rides because DASH pairs riders together. So DASH really gets us to think differently about public transit,” Hairston-Bridges said. “Up to four passengers can take a DASH and that’s very important as gas prices are beginning to increase and continually fluctuate.”
Since the launch, the program has expanded from 20 hubs to more than 30. Some of the connecting neighborhoods include Water Street,Tampa Heights, Channelside and the River Arts District. The service goal is to help residents, workers and visitors access local businesses and restaurants without relying on personal vehicles
DASH also integrates with existing public transportation options in the city.
“If you are closer to the TECO Line Street Car or the bus, it will tell you to take that option. It really kind of coordinates all of the public transit within the ecosystem to make sure that we’re getting you to your destination in the most effective and efficient way,” Hairston-Bridges said.
Beyond transportation, DASH officials said it emphasizes customer experience through its driver ambassadors.
“They know the patterns, they know the needs of the community. They do provide directions and local recommendations for visitors. They serve as an eyes and ears to the police department,” said Hairston-Bridges. “They really contribute to the overall welcoming experience that people have begun to love about Tampa.”
The driver ambassadors go through a three-week training process, where they not only learn safety and driving protocol, but also a comprehensive course on downtown's history, landmarks, and things to do.
“Our average rating is 4.9 out of 5. The feedback is always kind of overwhelmingly positive about our drivers,” Hairston-Bridges said.
In 2023, DASH provided 30,000 trips. There are five vehicles running the program, but Hairston-Bridges said the program is looking to expand by adding more electric vehicles.