A new demonstration microtransit service, GO! Santa Clarita, has been launched by the city of Santa Clarita, Calif.
The grant-funded project is aimed at connecting residents to nearby existing fixed-route and rail services during peak demand periods. The service has come to fruition via a close partnership between the city and contract operator MV Transportation, which developed the mobile application for the service.
GO! Santa Clarita provides curb-to-curb transportation within a designated service area, as well as to key destinations in the city, including the College of the Canyons Canyon Country Campus, Santa Clarita Child & Family Center, Via Princessa Metrolink station, Santa Clarita Sports Complex and the Walmart location on Carl Boyer Drive.
The pilot program was created in response to service recommendations within Santa Clarita Transit’s recently adopted Transit Development Plan (TDP). Completed by Moore & Associates, LLC in 2019, the TDP identified the need for smaller service vehicles in key areas throughout the city where traditional buses cannot be used due to terrain or other limiting factors. GO! Santa Clarita’s dynamic on-demand service allows staff to provide a vital first-and last-mile connection for residents within these difficult operating areas.
Staff have tested the app functionality and fine-tuned service parameters to ensure a seamless launch.
“GO! Santa Clarita marks the first major service change following the adoption of our TDP,” said Administrative Analyst Alex Porlier. “Coupled with the recent groundbreaking of our future Vista Canyon Bus Transfer Station, staff is excited to continue enhancing connectivity in our growing community.”
GO! Santa Clarita will operate for free during the month of March, after which time the regular fare will be $2.00 per trip or $1.00 for reduced fare patrons.
