Mobile Launches Second Line Transit

The City of Mobile has launched Second Line Transit, a new public transit system replacing Wave Transit starting in July, AL.com reported. The new name and branding are the result of a community survey launched in early March. “Second Line” pays homage to impromptu street parades often led by a brass band, with participants dancing and celebrating while waving handkerchiefs and umbrellas. While the tradition originated in New Orleans, it is deeply rooted along the Gulf Coast during the Carnival season. The city is partnering with New York-based Via Transit LLC to launch a modern, more reliable transit system. Under a $12.1-million annual contract approved last year, Via is tasked with reimagining Mobile’s transit system, including replacing Wave transit buses with smaller vehicles. The new network is expected to integrate improved technology with a coordinated system of trolleys, fixed-route buses, microtransit and paratransit services.