Local
SANDAG awards $4.5 million for seven San Diego microtransit pilots
SANDAG has awarded $4.5 million to establish or expand seven on-demand shared-ride services across the San Diego region, with some operations expected to begin as early as 2027.
The regional planning agency announced the awards October 23 through its first Flexible Fleets Pilot Grant Program. SANDAG describes the services as shared electric shuttles, minivans or small buses that can help riders make local trips or connect with traditional transit.
Total awarded: $4.5 million
New pilots: North County Transit, UC San Diego, La Mesa, Escondido and the County of San Diego
Expanded pilots: Chula Vista and Solana Beach
Where the money is going
Escondido and the County of San Diego each received $1 million. La Mesa received $859,384, North County Transit–San Diego Railroad received $810,000 and UC San Diego received $246,650 for new pilots. Chula Vista received $375,000 and Solana Beach $208,966 to enhance existing service.
SANDAG says the pilots are intended to improve first- and last-mile connections in areas with limited transportation options. The agency said potential uses include campus travel, shorter commutes and trips by older adults to medical appointments; individual service areas, fares and launch dates will be set by the award recipients.
Official award announcement: SANDAG →
Original local reporting: ABC 10News San Diego →