Santa Clara VTA, Hunterdon County helping veterans have better access to transit

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) and Hunterdon County, N.J., are aiming to help veterans have better access to transit. 

Santa Clara VTA launches six-month discounted fare pilot 

The Santa Clara VTA launched a six-month Veteran’s Fare Pilot Program on May 12 that introduces the Veteran Single Ride ticket for $1. Santa Clara VTA says the discounted fare, offering more than 50 percent savings from the standard adult single ride, will be exclusively available through the Token Transit Mobile App. Each purchased ticket includes unlimited free transfers within the Santa Clara VTA system for two hours once activated. The activated digital ticket will clearly display its expiration time within the app. 

The agency notes that to be eligible for this program, U.S. military veterans will need to show valid proof of their veteran status if requested by an agency operator or fare inspector. Accepted identification includes: 

• Veteran Health Identification Card 
• Veteran ID Card 
• Department of Defense Identification Card 
• State-issued driver's license or ID with a veteran's designation 

Santa Clara VTA says the discounted fares are valid only during the six-month pilot period and any unused tickets will expire at the program's conclusion. 

The agency notes it will be carefully evaluating the success of this pilot by monitoring ticket purchases and usage, estimating the number of veteran riders and assessing the financial impact. Future decisions regarding permanent fare changes will involve a comprehensive process, including public engagement, a Title VI Fare Equity analysis and a fare revenue impact budget assessment. 

Hunterdon County modifies LINK contract for veterans  

The Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution that allocates increased funding for transportation services that benefit local veterans. The modification to the existing LINK contract with the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs provides additional grant funds from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, ensuring that veterans have reliable transportation for medical appointments and other essential services. Under the resolution, the original grant of $15,000 has been increased to $17,300. 

“Access to reliable transportation is critical for our veterans, especially when it comes to healthcare,” said Hunterdon County Board Commissioner and Co-liaison to Veteran Affairs Susan Soloway. “This funding increase will allow Hunterdon County to continue its efforts to improve transportation options for local veterans.” 

In addition to providing LINK services, Hunterdon County notes it continues to work with goHunterdon to supplement transportation options with services through Lyft and Uber when the LINK is not available. This additional transportation support was made possible through a $100,000 grant awarded to goHunterdon by the board to improve transportation access in the county. 

“Hunterdon County is committed to ensuring our veterans receive the care and resources they deserve,” said Hunterdon County Board Commissioner and Co-liaison for Veterans Affairs Jeff Kuhl. “By increasing funding for transportation services, we are taking another step towards removing obstacles and making their lives a little easier for those who served.”