The San Diego Association of Governments on Tuesday began a four-year pilot project to offer electric, on-demand “microtransit” service in southeast San Diego.
Residents can use the new Southeastern Connect – SE Connect for short – in Chollas View, Emerald Hills, Mount Hope and more by going through the Via San Diego mobile app or calling 619-413-9986.
The new service, operated by Via Transportation, provides zero-emission rides for up to four passengers and is set to be free through November.
According to SANDAG, during the first three months, ridership data will be gathered to determine future fare options. Riders also can request wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
“This new connection will allow people to get around Southeastern communities in a more convenient way, providing low-cost access to essential places like supermarkets, hospitals, educational institutions, employment centers and our transit network,” said San Diego Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera, who also serves as SANDAG Transportation Committee Vice Chair.
He added that “by making it easy and cheap to reach jobs and services without a car, SE Connect is helping address the rising cost of living that makes it hard for so many San Diegans to make it.”
Elo-Rivera was joined by San Diego City Council colleague Henry L. Foster III and state Sen. Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson for the unveiling of the transportation service at Market Creek Plaza.
The $3.8 million pilot program is being funded through a combination of federal, state and local sources. Funders include SANDAG, the city of San Diego and the Clean Mobility Options program.
By partnering with the Urban Collaborative Project at Market Creek Plaza, SANDAG has brought the shared transportation service – known as “microtransit” – to another community in the county.
Other areas include Chula Vista, El Cajon, San Marcos and Vista. Pilot projects also have been run in Carlsbad, Coronado, and in San Diego, downtown and Pacific Beach.
“Without our community’s consistent engagement, Southeastern Connect would not have been possible,” Urban Collaborative Project CEO Brian Pollard said. “We are thrilled to see it come to life and serve our neighborhoods. We extend our gratitude to all partners for listening, truly collaborating and making this vision a reality.”
