Thousands in New York City rely on an unofficial system of public commuter vans to get around — one that is not part of the MTA. These vehicles — better known as dollar vans — have served riders across New York City for half a century, but their future is unclear.

The city’s government has struggled to regulate them, and growing operating costs of the vans pose challenges for both drivers and the riders who rely on them.

Producer Andrés Pacheco-Girón speaks with riders, drivers, and entrepreneurs all navigating what comes next for these dollar vans.