On August 20, 2018 the Antelope Valley Transit Authority was proud to implement the addition of a new stop on the 786 Commuter Route, which now services the West Los Angeles Veterans Administration Medical Center. To celebrate the new service, which provides greater access to health care for local veterans and active duty service members, U.S. Congressman Steve Knight (CA-25th District) joined a few representatives from various branches of the armed forces this morning on a trip aboard the bus down to the VA facility, located at 11301 Wilshire Blvd.
“I’m grateful for the commitment of the Antelope Valley Transit Authority (AVTA) with regards to assisting our veterans. Ensuring that our local heroes receive the medical treatment they need from the VA is a passion of mine," stated Congressman Knight. "This new service being offered by AVTA will allow many veterans to travel to the West LA Medical Center for treatment without having to worry about finding a ride”.
Knight and the veterans, along with regular commuter passengers on their way down to Los Angeles, enjoyed a comfortable ride and free Wi-Fi on AVTA's air-conditioned 45-foot bus. The agency operates a fleet of 30 commuter buses, making daily trips from Lancaster and Palmdale down to Los Angeles, Century City and the San Fernando Valley. With the Antelope Valley's large veteran and active duty military population, the connection to the largest veteran facility in the VA health care system provides a much-needed transportation solution.
"The Antelope Valley has a rich history associated with military service, and the health and welfare of our local veterans and active duty military continue to be a priority for us as a Board", said AVTA Board Chair Marvin Crist. "Making sure that they have a convenient and affordable transportation option to the VA is one way we can show our gratitude and appreciation for their service to our country."
With a cost of $10.50 round-trip, veterans and active duty personnel with military I.D. or an AVTA- issued military card can take the bus from Sgt. Steve Owen Memorial Park in Lancaster at 4:00, 4:30, 4:50, 5:20 and 5:40 a.m. and the Palmdale Transportation Center at 4:15, 4:50, 5:10, 5:35 and 6:00 a.m. Returns trips to the Antelope Valley will depart the VA at 3:18, 3:48, 4:28, 4:48 and 5:25 p.m. In the event that health care services extend beyond the time frame of return departures,
AVTA and the Veterans Administration will work together to ensure that patient has transportation back home to the Antelope Valley.
