SBCAG establishes a “Midday Connector,” which kicks off this month
The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) has launched a new midday bus service designed to provide more convenient and frequent transportation options for commuters traveling between North County and the South Coast. The new service, dubbed the Midday Connector, officially kicks off this month and offers free rides throughout April.
In celebration of Earth Month and to promote public transit, the Midday Connector is available to riders at no cost from 7:15 a.m. to 3:24 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding major holidays. This new addition to the Clean Air Express network connects Santa Maria, Lompoc, Buellton, Goleta, and Santa Barbara, with more flexible daytime travel options to accommodate residents’ varying schedules.
“For the first time, commuters can enjoy easier travel between North County and the South Coast,” said Marjie Kirn, executive director of SBCAG. “We’re thrilled to introduce this new midday bus service in response to the many commuters requesting more flexible daytime transportation options.”
The Midday Connector began as a soft launch in November, offering a demonstration service that has already garnered positive feedback from local residents. Aaron Bonfilio, director of multimodal programs for SBCAG, shared one story of a local resident with a disability who now has the ability to independently travel to Santa Barbara without waking up at dawn. “This new service is making a real difference,” said Bonfilio. “We’re excited to see how the more flexible schedule is helping riders run errands, attend appointments, and reach their destinations at times that work best for them.”
The Midday Connector will continue after April as a demonstration service, allowing SBCAG to assess ridership and gather community feedback. After the free fare period, one-way fares will be $7, with a reduced rate of $3 available for seniors (65+), individuals with disabilities, and Medicare recipients.
This new midday service is part of SBCAG’s biannual service adjustments to the Clean Air Express, which also includeupdated schedules and infrastructure improvements at various bus stops across the region. Riders will notice new bus stop signs and informational displays at locations throughout the county.
Funded by Measure A, a half-cent countywide transportation sales tax, and the State of California’s Low Carbon Transit Operations Program, the Midday Connector is aimed at increasing accessibility and reducing traffic congestion while promoting sustainability.
For more information on the Midday Connector and other Clean Air Express services, visit cleanairexpress.org or sbcag.org.
