VTrans is the first agency in San Bernardino County to ever be presented with California Transit Association's (CTA) prestigious “Transit Agency of the Year” award during the 2015 Fall Conference on November 19, 2015 in Pasadena. Cited by the Association was recognition that VTrans has launched a number of innovative alternative transportation programs to provide travel options to senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. VTrans’ mission to improve mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities fits well with this year’s conference theme of promoting innovation and non-traditional mobility.
Mayor of Rialto, Deborah Robertson says "It is truly an honor to have the 'Transit Agency of the Year' awardee serving citizens of the Inland Empire!"
VTrans is a nonprofit organization created in 2010 and designated as the Consolidated Transportation Services Agency (CTSA) in San Bernardino Valley. The organization’s mission is to improve the quality and effectiveness of transportation services to senior citizens, persons with disabilities and persons of low income through coordination of transportation services with social services and other charitable organizations within San Bernardino County. VTrans offers a variety of transportation programs including Travel Training, Volunteer Driver, and partners with several human service agencies to achieve its mission. The organization opened an Automotive Repair and Fleet Maintenance facility last November which specializes is preventative maintenance and repair of wheelchair lift equipped vehicles.
This year, VTrans launched the “Ride” program which offers taxi fare to seniors and individuals with disabilities at a 50% discount. Each participant is issued a reloadable debit card with their photo ID that can be redeemed on the local taxi cabs. Participants who have smartphones also have the option to request rides on Lyft, an app based rideshare program.
VTrans continuously strives to develop innovative transportation solutions for the most vulnerable populations and recognizes that one mode of transportation does not suit the needs of every individual.
