I keep going back and forth. If anything I would say user smaller/cheaper buses on fixed routes services where the demand isn’t that high. I have a feeling the proposed service areas provided would be way too large. This could also in a way compete with existing fixed route service. Route 27 could be replaced with the microtransit during less busy times. I like route 27 as is since it serves areas of interest such as the mall, hospital, NCMA, and fairgrounds. It goes by a few apartment complexes and technicially is within half a mile of a few more. My main complaints are that it was poorly utilized during the fair along with GoTriangle routes (Click here to see my post).
If microtransit is going to be used, then use it to create new fixed routes in areas of at least moderate density or as connector routes. Using them for people in less dense areas doesn’t do much for reducing traffic or overall carbon emissions. These are 2 things that public transit should be used to accomplish. I wouldn’t have an issue with one being used to create a local Brier Creek fixed route. Brier Creek has a lot of apartments. I would avoid going down the neighborhood next to Arnold Palmer Drive. It should be expected that if you live in a less dense area, that you are not going to have amenities that come with higher density. Connector routes between routes 36, 8, and 2 would also be good. A while ago, there was the GoTriangle route which went along Lynn Rd. A smaller fixed route from Lake Lynn to North Ridge Shopping Center would provide a connector between the 3 routes.
The fixed routes also set a precedent for planning. This is helpful for transit oriented development.