New Friday Bus Route Links Needles to Barstow and Victorville

Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA) is announcing a new bus route, designated the “Needles Link” which will be providing transportation from Needles, to Barstow and Victorville, on Fridays, beginning June 17th. The route is in response to a request from the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair, Robert Lovingood. Lovingood says, “The Needles Link is a cost-effective local solution for veterans, seniors and the general public.” He adds that the new route, “is an innovative way to help desert residents deal with the state’s funding cuts to courts in Needles and Barstow.” The reason for the Friday route is that courts have agreed to create a special Needles Calendar; most cases will be scheduled on Fridays.

Residents currently make the more than 350 mile round trip in a personal vehicle if they have one, borrow a vehicle to use, or are driven by a friend or family member. Making the trip can be a challenge. “Having access to reliable transportation to Barstow and Victorville will be a worthwhile convenience for many residents of Needles, and a godsend for some,” says Kevin Kane, Executive Director of VVTA. The fare will be affordable. One way is $12, about 6-cents per mile. Veterans, those 60-years of age or older and the disabled are ½ price. Up to 3 children ages 5 and under ride free.

While the new bus route was created to provide alternate transportation to the courts in Barstow and Victorville, anyone from anywhere can ride for any reason.  Some may want to visit family or friends, shop, or have non-court related business in Barstow or Victorville.  Residents of Needles who need or want to ride the Needles Link will be given preferential treatment. While anyone can reserve a seat, Needles residents can get curb-to-curb pickup and drop off by calling 760-948-3030.

After completing curb pickups, the bus will depart from the bus stop on G Street, near the Needles Chamber of Commerce at 6:15 A.M. It will arrive in Barstow at 9:30, and in Victorville by 10:15.  The bus will return to Needles at 7:15 Friday night.

Victor Valley Transit Authority will be utilizing a single, 16-passenger state-of-the-art vehicle, but more and/or larger buses will be added as demand increases.