Staff Report

Santa Ynez Valley Transit (SYVT) continues to protect both its employees and customers from the coronavirus (COVID-19) after returning to full-service. Management staff monitor and update guidelines and procedures set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to ensure residents can travel safely with the service.

In March, SYVT limited its service to a general public Dial-A-Ride (DAR) in response to the state-wide order to stay home issued by Governor Newsom. After certain restrictions were lifted, SYVT returned to full service (including resumption of the fixed-route service) to ensure residents and important essential service providers had convenient and affordable access to travel.

“Public transportation is an essential service because it is often the only way individuals can access supplies and employment in the community,” said Matt van der Linden, the Public Works Director for the City of Solvang. “SYVT is open and safe to ride.”

SYVT COVID-19 safety procedures include:

Blocking off alternating seats on all buses to help passengers stay six feet apart.

  • Cleaning all vehicles with hospital-grade disinfectant each evening.
  • Conducting inspections of all vehicles throughout the day to wipe down high-touch surfaces (such as handrails and fareboxes).
  • Requiring masks or facial coverings for all riders and drivers.
  • Encouraging riders to utilize recommended handwashing procedures and maintain social distancing at bus stops.

In accordance with County Health Department emergency orders, riders are also required to stay home if they feel unwell. “SYVT is here for the community so folks can feel confident about making those important travel plans to work, medical appointments, grocery shopping, and more,” said van der Linden.

For more information, call SYVT at (805) 688-5452 for assistance with questions or trip planning.    

SYVT is funded through a Memorandum of Understanding between the cities of Buellton and Solvang and Santa Barbara County. For information about SYVT, visit www.syvt.com or call (805) 688-5452.