Press Releases from the City of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus.en-usCopyright 2026, City of Santa Monica Big Blue BusMon, 25 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Automated-bus-lane-and-bus-stop-enforcement-begins-in-Santa-Monica.aspxAutomated bus lane and bus stop enforcement begins in Santa Monica - SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Aug. 25, 2025) - Beginning Sept. 1, the Santa Monica Department of Transportation, in coordination with the Police Department, will begin automated enforcement of vehicles parked illegally in both bus lanes and bus stops in Santa Monica, marking the official launch of its Automated Bus Lane and Bus Stop Enforcement, or ABLE, program.  Under the program, two front-facing cameras mounted inside Big Blue Bus's fleet, including a license plate recognition camera, will automatically detect and record illegally parked vehicles. Registered owners will receive a $293 citation for violations.  The formal launch of the program follows a 60-day warning period that began July 1, 2025, in which violators were mailed both a warning notice and information about the ABLE program. During the warning period, ABLE detected 352 instances of illegal parking in bus lanes and 777 instances at bus stops.  "The number of violations detected by ABLE during the warning period is eye-catching, yet not surprising," Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. "It underscores the urgent need for programs like ABLE that help enforce existing laws designed to keep our communities moving safely and reliably. Clear bus lanes and stops will help us deliver more efficient service for thousands of Big Blue Bus riders every day." A single vehicle obstructing a bus lane or bus stop can delay up to 60 riders, create accessibility challenges for those boarding and exiting, and cause safety risks for other pedestrians and motorists. These impacts disproportionately affect individuals who rely on public transportation, particularly seniors, students, people with disabilities and those with limited access to private vehicles. By reducing the illegal use of bus lanes and stops, ABLE supports Big Blue Bus's commitment to an efficient, equitable and sustainable system while advancing Santa Monica's strategic priority of clean streets and safe neighborhoods by investing in tools that support a high-quality multimodal transportation network.Mon, 25 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus%E2%80%99s-summer-service-change-brings-big-improvements.aspxBig Blue Bus’s summer service change brings big improvements - More buses, longer hours, and broader coverage planned to improve rider experience. SANTA MONICA, Calif. (July 30, 2025) - Beginning Sunday, Aug. 10, the city of Santa Monica Big Blue Bus will implement a series of service improvements designed to make riding easier, faster and more convenient for customers throughout Santa Monica and the Westside. These changes are part of Big Blue Bus's ongoing Brighter Blue initiative, which aims to make using sustainable transit a more appealing alternative to driving. As part of this service change, riders will benefit from: More frequent service on multiple routes, including Route 3 and Route 7, with trips every 10 minutes or better most of the day on weekdays, and 15 minutes or better most of the day on weekends. Expanded coverage and service hours on Route 43 with a route extension to Downtown Santa Monica and added midday and weekend trips. Seamless connections to key destinations such as the new LAX/Metro Transit Center and SoFi Stadium on Route 3. Restored service to the Pacific Palisades via Route 9. Enhanced bus shelters and bus stop amenities through Big Blue Bus's Better Blue Bus Stops program. "This service change brings exciting improvements for Big Blue Bus riders." Director of Transportation Anuj Gupta said. "With the opening of the LAX/Metro Center, Santa Monica residents and visitors can enjoy a seamless ride to and from Downtown Santa Monica, LAX and SoFi Stadium this summer. By expanding our frequent service network to include both Pico and Lincoln Boulevards, more riders can feel confident knowing the next bus will arrive within 10 minutes-making commuting with Big Blue Bus easier and more convenient for everyone." To learn more about these service changes and how your commute may be impacted, visit BigBlueBus.com. About Big Blue Bus   Big Blue Bus, a service of the city of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation, operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2031. Currently, more than 20 buses in its fleet are battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.      ###Wed, 30 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-implements-fare-policy-changes.aspxBig Blue Bus implements fare policy changes -   SANTA MONICA, Calif. (July 8, 2025) - Beginning Aug. 10, the Santa Monica Department of Transportation will increase fares on the Big Blue Bus system for the first time in nearly a decade. Big Blue Bus is implementing the following fare changes: Increasing the cost of Single Ride, 1-Day, 7-Day, 10 Rides, and 30-Day Passes Eliminating the Annual and Youth 30-Day Passes Fare Product Current Fare Fare Change Single Ride Regular (TAP/Mobile) $1.10 $1.25 Regular (Cash) $1.25 $1.50 Senior/Disabled/Medicare (S/D/M) (TAP/Mobile) $0.50 $0.60 Senior/Disabled/Medicare (S/D/M) (Cash) $0.50 $0.75 1-Day Pass Regular $4 $4.50 Senior/Disabled/Medicare (S/D/M) $1.50 $1.75 7-Day Pass Regular $14 $16 10 Rides Pass Regular $9 $10 Senior/Disabled/Medicare (S/D/M) $4.50 $5 30-Day Pass Regular $50 $55 Senior/Disabled/Medicare (S/D/M) $24 $27 Youth $19 Eliminated Annual Pass Regular $500 Eliminated   Big Blue Bus will maintain: One free Big Blue Bus to Big Blue Bus transfer within two hours Discounted fares for use of contactless payments Participation in regional fare discount programs such as LIFE and GoPass     The fare increase will help offset the rising costs of fuel, utilities, and supplies accrued in recent years. The changes will also help Big Blue Bus further invest in its fleet electrification and Brighter Blue program, which collectively aim to provide sustainable and convenient service through greater frequency, expanded operating hours, and improved connections to key destinations such as the new LAX/Metro Transit Center, Sofi Stadium, and Metro's C, D, and K Lines.   "At Big Blue Bus, we are in the midst of a transformative period," Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. "Along with our city and state partners, we are investing in high-quality transit service, a sustainable fleet that will move us into a greener future, and a skilled workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve. The fare adjustments will provide meaningful customer experience improvements that ensure Big Blue Bus remains a safe, reliable, convenient, and appealing alternative to driving."     Find more details about the fare changes at bigbluebus.com/meetings.Tue, 08 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-enhances-customer-safety-with-new-Prohibition-Order-Program.aspxBig Blue Bus enhances customer safety with new Prohibition Order Program - SANTA MONICA, Calif. (July 1, 2025) - Beginning July 1, the Santa Monica Department of Transportation will implement stronger action in promoting safety and adherence to its Customer Code of Conduct, thanks to its new Prohibition Order Program.   The program is made possible under Senate Bill 1417, and gives Big Blue Bus the authority to refuse service to customers who have been routinely cited for policy infractions, and/or arrested or convicted of a misdemeanor or felony committed on buses or at transit facilities.    Authored by Senator Ben Allen, SB 1417 allows the issuance of prohibition orders lasting from 30 days to one year for offenses that jeopardize the safety and comfort of Big Blue Bus passengers and employees. The bill also requires that an advisory committee be established to ensure a compassionate approach to enforcement is taken and that personnel issuing prohibition orders are properly trained.   "The Prohibition Order Program helps us ensure a safe and welcoming environment for Big Blue Bus riders and operators by giving us another tool to enforce our Customer Code of Conduct," Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. "The program supports our broader efforts to enhance the transit experience, so our customers can Ride With Confidence knowing that Big Blue Bus is safe, reliable, and inclusive for all riders."   The Prohibition Order Program is part of Big Blue Bus's comprehensive customer experience enhancement plan, which also includes: Brighter Blue, a five-year service improvement plan that seeks to provide more frequent service, expand operating hours, and improve connections to Metro Rail and other key destinations. The Better Blue Bus Stop project, aimed at improving bus stop amenities across Big Blue Bus's service area including upgraded lighting, additional seating, new shelters to provide more shade, and enhanced accessibility at boarding areas. Continued presence of Big Blue Bus Transit Safety Officers, who play an integral role in maintaining safety onboard buses and at bus stops. These officers provide friendly assistance with fare payment, trip planning, and wayfinding, while also upholding the Customer Code of Conduct. For more information on the Prohibition Order Program and to view Big Blue Bus's complete Customer Code of Conduct, visit bigbluebus.com/codeofconduct   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus, a service of the city of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation, operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2032. Currently, more than 20 buses in its fleet are battery electric. The rest of its fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Wed, 02 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Santa-Monica-Big-Blue-Bus-to-Host-Public-Hearings-on-Proposed-Fare-Changes.aspxSanta Monica Big Blue Bus to Host Public Hearings on Proposed Fare Changes - SANTA MONICA, Calif. (March 19, 2025) - The Santa Monica Department of Transportation's Big Blue Bus will host two public hearings to introduce proposed fare increases aimed at enhancing transit services and addressing rising operational costs. The first public hearing will be held virtually on Wednesday, April 2, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. To attend, community members must register at bigbluebus.com/meetings. The second public hearing will take place in-person on Thursday, April 3, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Santa Monica Main Library in the Martin Luther King Jr. Auditorium. Those unable to attend a hearing are encouraged to share feedback by completing an online survey at bigbluebus.com/meetings. The survey will remain open until Thursday, April 10. This marks Big Blue Bus's first fare increase proposal in nearly a decade, despite the rising cost of fuel, utilities, and supplies in recent years. "At Big Blue Bus, we are committed to maintaining affordable fares and high-quality transit service," Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. "The proposed fare adjustments will help us offset rising costs while investing in the recruitment and retention of our workforce and providing meaningful customer experience improvements that ensure Big Blue Bus remains a safe, reliable, convenient, and appealing alternative to driving."   Big Blue Bus is proposing the following fare changes: Increasing the cost of Single Ride, 1-Day, 7-Day, 10 Rides, and 30-Day Passes Eliminating the Annual and Youth 30-Day Passes Big Blue Bus will continue to offer one free intra-agency transfer within two hours, discounts on Single Rides for contactless fare payments, and expanded access to reduced fares through participation in regional programs such as LIFE and GoPass. Find more details about the proposed fare changes at bigbluebus.com/meetings. After gathering public feedback the department will bring the final proposal to the Santa Monica City Council for consideration, anticipated in May 2025. Getting to the Public Hearing BBB Routes 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, and 18 serve the Santa Monica Main Library. If you must drive, parking is available in the library garage (enter on 7th Street north of Santa Monica Blvd.). Accommodations This Santa Monica Main Library is ADA-accessible. Disability and interpretation accommodation requests should be made at least three days prior to the hearing by calling (310) 458-1975, ext. 2386. All written materials are available in alternate formats upon request. Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus, a service of the City of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation, operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2031. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency. Connect with Big Blue Bus: Facebook: SMBigBlueBusX: @SMBigBlueBusInstagram: @BigBlueBusWed, 19 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-hosts-grand-opening-celebration-for-new-off-leash-dog-run.aspxBig Blue Bus hosts grand opening celebration for new off-leash dog run - SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Oct. 29, 2024) - The city of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus will host a free community event to celebrate the grand opening of Little Blue Dog Run, its new off-leash dog run, on Saturday, Nov. 9, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will take place at Big Blue Bus headquarters, located at 1660 7th St. Led by Big Blue Bus, in strong collaboration with Santa Monica's Public Works Department, general contractor Ramco, and architect SWA Group, this revitalization project will transform an underutilized area next to Big Blue Bus headquarters into a vibrant green space for the community.  Little Blue Dog Run amenities include fenced exercise areas for dogs of all sizes, dog drinking fountains, trees, and a picnic area with seating. "This project aligns with our mission to improve the lives of those we serve by promoting connection, access, and mobility, while also contributing to a clean and safe Santa Monica," Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. "It transforms a busy Big Blue Bus stop and layover, served by three routes, into a dynamic community gathering space designed to enhance safety for our riders and staff through the installation of improved lighting and additional security cameras along the entire block." The kick-off will include a ribbon cutting ceremony, pet safety demonstrations from Santa Monica's Most Loved awardee Love At First Sit, and agility demonstrations from local business Fitdog. Santa Monica Animal Shelter staff will introduce residents to dogs available for adoption and the Santa Monica Veterinary Group will distribute free exam vouchers to attendees. The main event, a Doggie Fall Fashion Show, encourages community members to enter their pups to win amazing prizes donated by local partners including Wag Hotels, Silly Dog, Westside Dog Gang, Love At First Sit, Fitdog, and the Santa Monica Veterinary Group. The project advances the city of Santa Monica's strategic priorities of Clean & Safe and Economic Growth & Cultural Vitality, providing a safe, clean, green space for Santa Monica residents and their pets. To learn more about the grand opening event and register for the Doggie Fall Fashion Show, visit: santamonica.gov/events About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus, a service of the city of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation, operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2031. Currently, 10 percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Tue, 29 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Sustainable---Connected--Big-Blue-Bus-awarded-$53-3-million-to-accelerate-fleet-electrification,-service-enhancements,-and-workforce-development.aspxSustainable & Connected: Big Blue Bus awarded $53.3 million to accelerate fleet electrification, service enhancements, and workforce development - SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Oct. 24, 2024) -  The California State Transportation Agency announced Wednesday that the City of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus will receive a $53.3 million grant through its Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program, or TIRCP.   The funding will support the following initiatives, enabling Big Blue Bus to meet statewide greenhouse gas reduction goals and advance Santa Monica's commitment to a Sustainable & Connected community: Completed the phased implementation of an electrification master plan ($35,534,149) Enable the purchase of 73 battery electric buses ($17,340,129) Provide workforce development to operate infrastructure improvements ($406,405) "We are thrilled that the state is investing in our project to expand Big Blue Bus service and complete our conversion to a 100 percent battery electric, zero-emissions fleet," Santa Monica DOT Director Anuj Gupta said. "This funding will enhance our ability to deliver sustainable transit service--reducing emissions and congestion, and connecting our community to opportunity."   Approximately $35.5 million in TIRCP funds will be allocated to fully implement Big Blue Bus's Fleet Electrification Master Plan, a detailed seven-phase strategy for transitioning from a renewable natural gas fleet to a 100 percent zero-emissions fleet by 2031. The plan involves implementing electric utility and charging equipment upgrades at Big Blue Bus's depot, which includes constructing a large canopy equipped with overhead reel charging dispensers that can fully charge an electric bus in about four hours.   Big Blue Bus will use $17.3 million to purchase 73 zero-emission battery electric buses, replacing compressed natural gas vehicles that have surpassed their useful life. The new buses will be ADA accessible, have approximately 40 seats, and feature new bicycle racks capable of holding up to three bicycles.   More than $400,000 will be directed toward workforce development to ensure staff are well trained in operating and maintaining the new buses. Big Blue Bus will provide over 1,100 hours of advanced, high-voltage safety training for its staff in partnership with the California Transit Training Consortium.   Big Blue Bus will also use grant funds to improve Route 2 service on Wilshire Boulevard, connecting the route to L.A. County Metro's D Line at two stations, once the rail line is fully extended to the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center in 2027. That same year, the agency will add more than 12,350 service hours to the route and increase trip frequency from every 20 minutes to every 10 minutes.   "These funds will deliver tangible improvements for Big Blue Bus riders, enhance the social and economic well-being of the communities we serve, and provide a world-class transit experience for major regional events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games," Gupta said.   Twenty-seven transit agencies were awarded funding in TIRCP Cycle 7; the program offers grants to support innovative capital improvement projects that help California transit systems significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, vehicle miles traveled, and traffic congestion. Big Blue Bus received 100 percent of its requested funding amount and scored "High" to "Medium-High" in nearly every project rating.   Last April, Big Blue Bus was awarded $22.9 million in TIRCP funds to purchase five battery electric buses and complete Phases 2 through 4 of its Master Plan.   Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus, a service of the City of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation, operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2031. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.   Connect with Big Blue Bus: Facebook: SMBigBlueBusX: @SMBigBlueBusInstagram: @BigBlueBusThu, 24 Oct 2024 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Santa-Monica-City-Council-adopts-five-year-plan-for-Big-Blue-Bus-service-enhancements.aspxSanta Monica City Council adopts five-year plan for Big Blue Bus service enhancements - SANTA MONICA, Calif. (July 10, 2024) - At its July 9 meeting, the Santa Monica City Council adopted Brighter Blue, a five-year plan to improve Big Blue Bus service by providing riders with fast, sustainable and reliable access to jobs, healthcare, education and other essential services, and providing a world-class transit experience for major events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics. Brighter Blue was developed in response to post-pandemic travel behavior changes and a rapidly growing regional rail network. Informed by a comprehensive analysis of Big Blue Bus's current services and an extensive 18-month community and stakeholder outreach effort, riders can anticipate the following service enhancements under Brighter Blue: More frequent service on most routes, including a high frequency network with weekday service every 10 minutes or better on select corridors during peak hours.   Expanded operating hours so that most routes start earlier in the day, end later at night and operate on weekends. Improved connectivity to key destinations, such as the LAX/Metro Transit Center, Culver City Transit Center and the Metro Rail D Line extension. "We are thrilled that City Council has approved the Department of Transportation's Brighter Blue plan. Over the next five years, these enhancements will significantly elevate the experience for Big Blue Bus riders, drivers, and the broader Santa Monica and West Los Angeles community," Santa Monica Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta said. "While travel patterns have changed post-pandemic, the fundamentals of high-quality transit remain the same. Service needs to be fast, frequent, safe, and reliable to serve as an effective transportation mode. Concentrating investments on key high-frequency routes will create a stronger foundation for our overall network, making Big Blue Bus's service more attractive and convenient, reducing wait times, and providing more flexibility to current and future riders planning their trips." Brighter Blue is among several Department of Transportation initiatives that seek to provide an enhanced rider experience: Zero-Emission Bus Fleet: Big Blue Bus is an industry leader in sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. The agency is on pace to achieve a complete zero-emission, battery electric bus fleet by 2030. Safety Officer Program: The Department of Transportation launched a Transit Safety Officer Program in March 2024 to enhance safety for riders and employees. The program deploys unarmed security guards across the system wherever data shows their services are most needed. Automated Bus Lane Enforcement: Last summer, Big Blue Bus conducted a successful pilot of automated bus lane enforcement technology. Staff will present a recommendation for a permanent program to City Council for approval in FY2024-25. Communications System Upgrade: Big Blue Bus is upgrading its fleet communications system to provide better real-time bus arrival predictions and minimize service delays and disruptions. Better Blue Bus Stops: Big Blue Bus will continue to improve bus stops throughout its service area. Improvements include upgraded lighting, increased shade, larger boarding areas, and more seating options. Implementation of the Brighter Blue service plan advances the City Council's strategic priorities of Sustainable & Connected and Justice, Equity & Diversity. For detailed information about all the service improvements planned over the next five years, visit brighterbluebbb.com. Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.  Connect with Big Blue Bus: Facebook: SMBigBlueBusX: @SMBigBlueBusInstagram: @BigBlueBusWed, 10 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-introduces-Transit-Safety-Officer-Program-to-strengthen-system-security.aspxBig Blue Bus introduces Transit Safety Officer Program to strengthen system security - SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Feb. 28, 2024) - The city of Santa Monica is reinforcing safety and security on Big Blue Bus by deploying transit safety officers across its system next month to ensure a comfortable and welcoming environment for customers and staff. The initiative is part of a broader customer experience plan aimed to enhance Big Blue Bus safety, convenience, and attractiveness, and advance the city's commitment to a Clean & Safe Santa Monica. In partnership with Good Guard Security, a national leader in security guard services, beginning March 10, Big Blue Bus will station transit safety officers on high-traffic routes and at select bus stops, where they are most needed. The specially trained unarmed officers will ensure passengers feel comfortable and confident riding Big Blue Bus, and will help: Assist riders with navigating the regional bus and rail network Provide guidance on Big Blue Bus fares and payment methods Address safety and maintenance concerns reported by passengers Offer support and resource materials to passengers in need Educate riders about Big Blue Bus's Code of Conduct and ensure adherence "Big Blue Bus has long maintained an exceptionally clean, safe, and secure system," said Anuj Gupta, director of Santa Monica Department of Transportation. "We are introducing transit safety officers as another component of our multilayered approach to safety and customer experience, and to provide greater support to our dedicated riders and employees." See Something, Say Something Passengers are encouraged to report suspicious or inappropriate behavior to a transit safety officer or Big Blue Bus operator, or use Santa Monica 311. In case of emergencies, dialing or texting 911 is recommended. For more information about Big Blue Bus, please visit bigbluebus.com. Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.  Connect with Big Blue Bus: Facebook: SMBigBlueBusX: @SMBigBlueBusInstagram: @BigBlueBusWed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-seeks-community-input-to-enhance-customer-experience.aspxBig Blue Bus seeks community input to enhance customer experience - SANTA MONICA, Calif. (Feb. 21, 2024) - The city of Santa Monica is reimagining Big Blue Bus, working with community partners to expand access to fast, frequent, and reliable transportation in Santa Monica and west Los Angeles. Community members are invited to share feedback on Big Blue Bus service improvements at two public workshops in March as part of the city's Brighter Blue service planning initiative. Through Brighter Blue, Big Blue Bus will establish a roadmap for implementing system enhancements over the next five years, taking into consideration the following factors: Impacts of COVID-19 on current travel patterns and service conditions Changes in the region and operating environment  Big Blue Bus's ongoing transition to a zero-emission fleet "It has been nearly 10 years since Big Blue Bus last conducted a planning effort of this scale, and our riders' needs have shifted drastically during this period," said Anuj Gupta, director of the Santa Monica Department of Transportation. "We encourage current and future riders to take part in this process as we seek to better align our system with post-pandemic travel behavior, promote greater connectivity with built and planned regional transportation projects, enhance first-last mile connections, and improve bus frequency and travel speeds." Community members are invited to provide input at two public workshops: Virtual Workshop Wednesday, March 6 6-8 p.m. In-Person Workshop Thursday, March 7 5:30-7:30 p.m. Santa Monica Main Library - Multipurpose Room 601 Santa Monica Blvd. To attend a workshop, register at brigherbluebbb.com. Those unable to attend a workshop can also provide input via an online survey at sur-vey.typeform.com/brighterblue. Getting to the in-person workshop Big Blue Bus Routes 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18, Rapid 7, and Rapid 10 serve the Santa Monica Main Library. If you must drive, parking is available in the library garage (enter on 7th Street, just north of Santa Monica Boulevard). Accommodations The Santa Monica Main Library is ADA-accessible. Disability and translation accommodation requests should be made at least three days prior to the meeting by calling (310) 458-1975, ext. 2386. All written materials are available in alternate formats upon request. For more information about Brighter Blue, please visit: brighterbluebbb.com Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386 robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.  Connect with Big Blue Bus: Facebook: SMBigBlueBusX: @SMBigBlueBusInstagram: @BigBlueBusWed, 21 Feb 2024 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-to-Provide-Free-Rides-During-Week-of-October-2-for-California-Clean-Air-Day-and-Bike-It!-Walk-It!-Bus-It!.aspxBig Blue Bus to Provide Free Rides During Week of October 2 for California Clean Air Day and Bike It! Walk It! Bus It! - SANTA MONICA, Calif. -  The City of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus will offer free rides to Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) students beginning Monday, October 2 through Friday, October 6, 2023, and free rides to all customers on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, to support a pair of initiatives that will help bring cleaner air to Santa Monica and West Los Angeles. California Clean Air Day On Wednesday, October 4, 2023, Big Blue Bus will offer free rides to all customers systemwide for California Clean Air Day. A project of the Coalition for Clean Air, California Clean Air Day is a statewide program built on the idea that shared experiences and individual actions can improve air quality and protect public health. Individuals and organizations are invited to take the Clean Air Pledge, and commit to one or more actions to advance clean air, such as riding public transportation. Take the Clean Air Pledge online at: cleanairday.org/pledge/individual/bbb/ Bike It! Walk It! Bus It! Beginning Monday, October 2 through Friday, October 6, 2023, Big Blue Bus will celebrate Bike It! Walk It! Bus It! by offering free rides to SMMUSD students. During Bike It! Walk It! Bus It! week, families are encouraged to forego driving in favor of eco-friendly modes of transportation, like walking, biking, or taking transit to school. The weeklong celebration includes fun events, activities and trainings designed to encourage kids to adopt active and sustainable transportation, and lessen dependence on fossil fuels. SMMUSD students can use their GoPass TAP card for free rides on Big Blue Bus during Bike It! Walk It! Bus It! Week, and any time throughout the school year. SMMUSD students can also show a valid school ID, report card or class schedule to the Big Blue Bus Operator when boarding for free rides during Bike It! Walk It! Bus It! week. For more details, visit: bigbluebus.com/newsroom "The Santa Monica Department of Transportation continues to invest in developing a safe and complete multi-modal transportation network that supports healthy and active communities," said Anuj Gupta, Interim Director of the Santa Monica Department of Transportation. "By offering free fares during the week of October 2, Big Blue Bus is lowering barriers to eco-friendly transportation, which aligns with our strategic goal of reducing our carbon footprint and fostering climate resiliency." Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in California. Big Blue Bus is committed to providing access to safe, affordable, and sustainable transportation for marginalized communities disproportionately burdened by climate change. The agency plans to convert its entire renewable natural gas fleet to zero-emission vehicles by 2030, complete facility and infrastructure enhancements that support on-site charging of nearly 200 vehicles and facilitate the creation of green jobs. Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency. Wed, 27 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/City-of-Santa-Monica-Mourns-Passing-of-Former-Big-Blue-Bus-Director-Stephanie-Negriff.aspxCity of Santa Monica Mourns Passing of Former Big Blue Bus Director Stephanie Negriff - SANTA MONICA, Calif. - The City of Santa Monica today announced with great sadness that Stephanie Negriff, former director of Big Blue Bus, passed away earlier this month at age 67. Negriff rose through the ranks to become Big Blue Bus director in August 2002, having previously served in various capacities, including assistant director of operations, manager of transit development and intergovernmental relations and senior administrative analyst. Negriff retired from Big Blue Bus in 2011, after 25 years of service. Prior to joining Big Blue Bus, Negriff held roles with transit agencies in Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. "Stephanie was a visionary leader who helped established a bedrock of enduring programs and services that continue to support our community's transportation needs," said Anuj Gupta, Interim Director of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation. "She led with care and compassion for Big Blue Bus staff and customers, and embodied the agency's values of teamwork, community service, integrity, innovation, and continuous improvement. She will be greatly missed." While serving as director of Big Blue Bus, Negriff was responsible for the creation of Downtown Santa Monica's Transit Mall, the implementation of two bus rapid transit lines, and the completion of the Big Blue Bus campus expansion project. She also oversaw development of an award-winning, state-of-the-art bus maintenance facility, and led the implementation of student and regional fare programs through innovative partnerships with Santa Monica College, UCLA, and LA Metro. Further, Negriff guided Big Blue Bus's transition to a clean energy fleet, which consisted of gas/electric hybrid, biodiesel, and compressed natural gas vehicles. She was also instrumental in negotiating funding policies for the distribution of Prop C, Measure R and other regional transportation formula programs, to ensure economic sustainability for Big Blue Bus and other municipal transit systems in Los Angeles County. Under Negriff's leadership, Big Blue Bus won the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award in 2011, and she was named APTA Outstanding Public Transit Manager the same year. Negriff's funeral service will be held September 30, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. at Chapel of the Gardens, Mountain View Mortuary, 2300 N. Marengo Avenue in Altadena. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Negriff's name to the Westside Family Health Center, where she served on the Board of Directors until her passing. Negriff is survived by her husband, Larry, stepchildren Sonya and Liza, and one grandchild. Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10 percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Tue, 26 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Santa-Monica-Department-of-Transportation-Director-Ed-King-to-Retire-in-August-2023.aspxSanta Monica Department of Transportation Director Ed King to Retire in August 2023 - SANTA MONICA, Calif. - The City of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation Director Ed King announced that he will retire in August 2023. King retires with more than 46 years of service in public transportation, spending the last 12 years as director for the City of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus, and most recently the Department of Transportation. His tenure at the City is preceded by leadership roles at Long Beach Transit and the San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority. "I started my career in transportation as a traffic checker, then bus operator at the Regional Transportation Authority in Chicago, and am grateful to have worked alongside many remarkable, innovative, and resilient colleagues along the way," said King. "I have been driven by the meaningful work of keeping communities connected to essential services and opportunities that improve social and economic well-being, and expanding access to safe, sustainable, affordable, and equitable integrated transportation options." During his time with the City, King has led teams whose accomplishments include: Developing a state-of-the-art, Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certified bus maintenance facility, completed in 2012. Becoming one of the country's first municipal transit agencies to convert its entire fleet to renewable natural gas (RNG), rated 90 percent cleaner than clean diesel, in 2015. Completing an award-winning transit system redesign in 2016, resulting in six new bus routes; 53,000 additional annual revenue service hours; construction of over 230 Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible bus stops, and first-last mile improvements through integration with seven E Line (Expo) stations. Publishing the Council-adopted Big Blue Bus Service, Design, Performance and Evaluation Guidelines, approved in 2018 and setting clear standards for effective and efficient transit service and ensuring transparent and inclusive stakeholder engagement on service delivery. Partnering with rideshare company Lyft to launch Santa Monica's Mobility On-Demand Every Day (MODE) Program, which has provided nearly 200,000 sedan and wheelchair van rides to eligible residents since its inception in 2018. Introducing Big Blue Bus's first battery-electric bus in 2019, and establishing a Fleet Electrification Master Plan, which outlines the agency's transition to a 100 percent zero-emissions fleet by 2030. Expanding Santa Monica's bikeway network to over 120 miles and implementing pedestrian access and safety improvements along high-traffic corridors in Santa Monica, including Olympic Boulevard, Ocean Avenue, and Wilshire Boulevard, and at Vision Zero Priority Intersections. Maintaining and operating 5,600 on-street parking meters and 46 parking facilities in Santa Monica. "In his distinguished tenure, Ed has made tremendous improvements to Santa Monica's transportation network," said City Manager David White. "He adopted sustainable solutions for our transit fleet, restored services through our economic recovery efforts, and led the Department of Transportation through the challenges of COVID-19. I thank Ed for his steadfast leadership and years of service to our community." King's last day will be August 9, 2023. Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10 percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Fri, 09 Jun 2023 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Receives-$22-9-Million-State-Grant-for-Fleet-Electrification,-Workforce-Development,-and-Customer-Experience-Enhancements.aspxBig Blue Bus Receives $22.9 Million State Grant for Fleet Electrification, Workforce Development, and Customer Experience Enhancements - SANTA MONICA, Calif. - The California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) announced that Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus (BBB) will receive a $22.9 million grant to purchase 5 battery electric buses (BEBs) and develop infrastructure to support on-site charging for more than 100 buses. BBB is one of 28 transit agencies in California to be awarded grant funding through CalSTA's Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP), as part of a multiyear investment to upgrade the state's transit system to support transportation equity, improve service and mobility options, and reduce overdependence on driving. Specifically, the funding will help BBB complete Phases 2 through 4 of its Fleet Electrification Master Plan, which outlines the agency's fleet transition from renewable natural gas to zero-emission by 2030. The award will support electric utility and charging equipment upgrades at BBB's depot, including construction of a large canopy with overhead reel charging dispensers. The grant will also allow BBB to create green jobs, provide over 1,100 hours of advanced, high-voltage safety training for its staff in partnership with the California Transit Training Consortium, and improve transportation outcomes for marginalized communities disproportionately burdened by climate change. Further, BBB will use TIRCP funds to enhance the customer experience, by purchasing and deploying 5 BEBs on Route 3 and Rapid 3, as part of a comprehensive plan to reimagine service along the Lincoln Boulevard corridor, between Downtown Santa Monica and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Route 3 and Rapid 3 will be rerouted to connect to both the Metro Rail K Line and the LAX People Mover, when the new LAX/Metro Transit Center is completed in 2024. Moreover, one additional mile of bus lanes will be implemented on Lincoln Boulevard in Venice during peak hours, and BBB will add 11,500 service hours annually on Route 3 and Rapid 3, to increase frequency to every 10 minutes most of the day. "This is a landmark moment for Big Blue Bus and the City of Santa Monica in our collective efforts to realize carbon emission reduction goals; provide frequent, sustainable, and equitable transit service to low-income and disadvantaged communities; and strengthen the region's transportation network," said Ed King, Director of Santa Monica's Department of Transportation. "The funds will be used to make substantial investments in climate and workforce resilience, as well as capital improvement projects that increase ridership and improve the customer experience on our system."  During Phase 1 of its Fleet Electrification Master Plan, BBB installed 20 standalone chargers at its depot and purchased 19 BEBs. In February 2023, the Santa Monica City Council approved BBB's request to purchase 15 additional BEBs. The funds received from CalSTA's TIRCP will elevate the agency's number of zero-emission buses to 39, and support the construction of infrastructure capable of charging up to 104 buses at its depot. TIRCP provides grants from the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, to fund transformative capital improvements that modernize California's transportation systems and significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, vehicle miles traveled, and congestion.  Media Contact Robert McCall 310.458.1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90-percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Thu, 27 Apr 2023 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-to-Implement-Fare-Policy-Changes-on-June-22,-2022.aspxBig Blue Bus to Implement Fare Policy Changes on June 22, 2022 - SANTA MONICA, Calif. -  On June 22, 2022, Big Blue Bus (BBB) will implement fare policy changes to reduce bus boarding and travel time, and maintain health and safety improvements on board. The changes include: Free BBB to BBB transfers within 2 hours for one-way trips A new 10 Rides Pass for $9 - Regular, $4.50 - Senior/Disabled/Medicare A permanent price reduction of the Youth 30-Day Pass price to $19 Free rides for children 5 years old and younger Resumption of cash fare payments on board Discontinue acceptance of BBB paper passes and tokens Discounts for Contactless Fare Payments Customers who make contactless payments with a TAP card or mobile ticket can ride BBB for just $1.10 one-way, which includes two (2) hours of free BBB to BBB transfers. When restored, a one-way cash fare will cost $1.25, and will not include free transfers. Exchanges for Papers Passes and Tokens Customers may exchange tokens or paper passes for an equivalent pass product at Blue: The Transit Store (1444 4th Street, Santa Monica). Exchanges will be offered beginning June 22 until September 30, 2022. To learn more, please visit bigbluebus.com/farechanges. Media Contact Robert McCall 310-458-1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Mon, 13 Jun 2022 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-to-Host-Public-Hearing-on-Proposed-Fare-Changes-on-February-10.aspxBig Blue Bus to Host Public Hearing on Proposed Fare Changes on February 10 - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) will hold a Public Hearing on Thursday, February 10 from 5:30pm-7:30pm at the Santa Monica Main Library's Martin Luther King Jr. Auditorium to present and discuss a new fare structure. Since 2015, BBB has sought to reduce cash boardings across its system and encourage more customers to use contactless fare media (i.e., a TAP card or mobile ticket) in an effort to: Speed up travel time and reduce the time customers spend waiting to board the bus Invest the savings realized from reduced travel time into more frequent service Provide customers with greater choice and convenience for fare payment options Identify efficiencies for farebox maintenance and cash handling Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, nearly half of BBB customers migrated away from using cash and/or magnetic stripe paper passes to pay their fare, instead, using a TAP card or mobile tickets to pay their fare. To mitigate health risks associated with the pandemic, BBB suspended fare collection on March 20, 2020, and required customers to board and exit through the rear door. When fare collection and front-door boarding resumed in February 2021, BBB piloted several fare changes. First, BBB discontinued paper pass sales. At the same time, BBB introduced a promotional Single Ride fare ($1.00 - Regular; $0.40 - Senior/Disabled/Medicare) for TAP and mobile ticket payments to promote greater adoption of contactless fares. BBB also discontinued acceptance of paper passes in April 2021. In July 2021, BBB transitioned to contactless fare payments only, as part of the pilot to help staff assess the customer and operational impacts of a cashless system. BBB is now proposing a new fare structure that includes the following changes: Reduce the price of some existing fare products and introduce two (2) new fare products Introduce free BBB to BBB transfers  Discontinue six (6) underutilized fare products to make fare options easier to understand Raise the age at which children ride free Limit onboard fare payments to contactless (i.e., TAP card and mobile ticket) as a result of the successful contactless fare payment pilot program that has been in place since July 12, 2021 See details of this proposal at bigbluebus.com/meetings. "As our community continues to endure the effects of the pandemic, providing options for safe, reliable, fast, and affordable transportation will be critical to our recovery. The ease and simplicity of contactless fare payments allow us to expand access to free and reduced transit fares, continue to safeguard the health of customers and staff, and carry riders more efficiently on our system," said Ed King, DOT Director. Customers who are unable to attend the meeting and would like to submit feedback are encouraged to complete an online survey at bigbluebus.com/meetings. The survey will remain open until February 17, 2022. After the public hearing, adjustments to the proposal may be made based on public feedback prior to submitting to the City Council for consideration and approval.  Getting to the Public Hearing  BBB Routes 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18, Rapid 3, Rapid 7, or Rapid 10 serve the Santa Monica Main Library. If you must drive, parking is available in the library garage (enter on 7th St. just north of Santa Monica Blvd.). Health & Safety Requirements Please refrain from attending the public hearing if you are demonstrating recognized signs of COVID-19 or other similar illness. Except for children aged 2 and under, attendees must wear a face covering at all times over the nose and mouth, while inside the Library. All attendees will be required to complete a health screening before entering the Auditorium. Once inside the Auditorium, please maintain a 6-foot physical distance from others that are not in your same household. Accommodations This venue is ADA-accessible. Disability and translation accommodation requests should be made at least three (3) days prior to the meeting by calling 310.458.1975, ext. 2386. All written materials are available in alternate formats upon request. Media Contact Robert McCall 310-458-1975 ext. 2386robert.mccall@santamonica.gov About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency plans to convert its entire fleet from natural gas to zero emissions by 2030. Currently, 10-percent of the fleet is battery electric. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Thu, 27 Jan 2022 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Introducing-New-Express-7-Service-on-Pico-Blvd--Starting-August-16.aspxBig Blue Bus Introducing New Express 7 Service on Pico Blvd. Starting August 16 - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) is launching a new express service - Express 7, which will provide limited stop service to major destinations including Downtown Santa Monica and Santa Monica College Main Campus, and connect to Metro Rail's E Line and D Line. Express 7 service begins Monday, August 16, 2021, and buses will operate on weekdays only, from 6:30 a.m. - 8:00 p.m., running every 20 minutes all day. Customers can board Express 7 at one of the following stops, between Downtown Santa Monica and the Wilshire/Western Station D Line: 7th St. & Olympic Blvd. 4th St. & Colorado Ave. (Downtown Santa Monica Station E Line) Pico Blvd. & 18th St. (Santa Monica College Main Campus) Pico Blvd. & Sepulveda Blvd. (Sepulveda Station E Line) Pico Blvd. & San Vicente Blvd. (Rimpau Terminal) Pico Blvd. & Crenshaw Blvd. Wilshire Blvd. & Western Blvd. (Wilshire/Western Station D Line)  When combined, Big Blue Bus's Route 7, Rapid 7, and new Express 7 will provide customers with weekday service every 10 minutes along the Pico boulevard corridor. "Frequent, reliable, and safe public transportation is critical to both our region's economic recovery, and mitigating traffic congestion, which has returned to pre-pandemic levels," said Ed King, Director of Santa Monica Department of Transportation. "We're introducing Express 7 to create faster, sustainable, and more equitable access to jobs, education, and other opportunities along the corridor." Big Blue Bus no longer accepts cash and tokens onboard. Instead, customers can ride Express 7 for $1.00, when making contactless fare payments with a TAP card or mobile ticket. For more details, visit bigbluebus.com/contactless. To preview the new route and download the Express 7 schedule, visit bigbluebus.com/E7. Media Contact Jennie Campos 310-458-1975 ext. 5541jennie.campos@smgov.net About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency added its first zero-emission bus in 2019. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Thu, 12 Aug 2021 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Launches-Contactless-Payment-Pilot-on-July-12.aspxBig Blue Bus Launches Contactless Payment Pilot on July 12 - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) will transition to contactless only fare payments starting on Monday, July 12 as part of a systemwide pilot program. During the pilot period, cash and tokens will no longer be accepted on board. Instead, customers will be asked to pay for their trip using a TAP card or mobile ticket. The pilot program will study the effectiveness of contactless payments, including making buses safer for both customers and Motor Coach Operators, faster boarding times, and offering more convenient and economical ways for customers to pay their fare. TAP eliminates the burden of carrying exact change, by offering a reusable card that works as a transit pass. TAP cards are smart and secure and can be loaded with a BBB pass or Stored Value (valid on any of the 26 TAP-participating transit agencies) for seamless travel throughout the Westside and LA County. Mobile tickets can be conveniently purchased through Transit (BBB's official app), Token Transit, and other third-party apps, which are available for iOS and Android smartphones. BBB Single Rides and passes can be purchased in the Transit app for immediate use or stored for future trips. In response to the start of the pilot program, Blue: The Transit Store has increased its operating hours, and is now open Monday through Thursday from 8:30am to 5:00pm and every other Friday from 12:00pm to 4:00pm. The Transit Store is located at 1444 4th St. in Downtown Santa Monica. To help customers decide which contactless option works best for them, BBB encourages scheduling in-person appointments with Transit Store staff at santamonica.gov/appointment, or by calling (310) 451-5444.  To encourage contactless payments, BBB is offering a free 30 Day pass and discounted Single Rides to customers who pay their fare with a TAP card or mobile ticket. Customers may redeem one (1) free BBB 30 Day pass during the promotional period, from now through Thursday, July 22. BBB will also maintain its Single Ride discounts for TAP and mobile ticket users during the pilot. Regular customers only pay $1 per trip and Senior/Disabled/Medicare customers pay $0.40 per trip. To access the free 30 Day Pass and for more details, visit bigbluebus.com/quitcash. Media Contact Jennie Campos 310-458-1975 ext. 5541jennie.campos@smgov.net About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency added its first zero emissions bus in 2019. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Fri, 18 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Offers-Free-30-Day-Pass-for-Customers-Who-Switch-to-Contactless-Payments.aspxBig Blue Bus Offers Free 30 Day Pass for Customers Who Switch to Contactless Payments - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) is offering a free 30 Day pass for customers who switch to contactless payments on TAP or mobile ticket. As part of a short-term pilot to help us study the benefits of a cashless system, BBB is going contactless this summer. As BBB strives to continue to enhance safety for our customers and staff through additional cleaning and disinfecting of our fleet, eliminating cash transactions will make buses safer for both customers and Motor Coach Operators. This effort will also benefit customers as it will greatly reduce boarding times and therefore provide a more efficient and faster trip. To further incentivize the transition, BBB is also offering discounted Single Ride fares. For those paying with a TAP card or a mobile ticket, Regular customers can ride BBB for $1 each way; Senior/Disabled/Medicare customers ride for just $0.40. "To encourage customers to try TAP or mobile ticketing, Big Blue Bus is offering a free 30 Day pass and discounted Single Rides. By trying these options, we hope that customers experience the tangible benefits of contactless fares, including how convenient and economical these choices can be," said Ed King, Director of the Santa Monica Department of Transportation. There are two ways customers can access the free 30 Day pass. Options include downloading the Transit app to an Apple or Android smartphone and creating an account to get the pass, or by visiting Blue: The Transit Store to pick up the pass on a TAP card. The Transit Store is located at 1444 4th St., in Downtown Santa Monica. To help customers decide which contactless option works best for them, BBB encourages scheduling in-person appointments with Transit Store staff at santamonica.gov/appointment, or by calling (310) 451-5444. Customers may redeem one (1) free BBB 30 Day pass during the promotional period, from now through Thursday, July 15. For more details, visit bigbluebus.com/quitcash. Media Contact Jennie Campos 310-458-1975 ext. 5541jennie.campos@smgov.net About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency added its first zero emissions bus in 2019. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Mon, 24 May 2021 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Pilots-Predictive-Crowding-Levels-for-All-Lines-in-Transit-App.aspxBig Blue Bus Pilots Predictive Crowding Levels for All Lines in Transit App - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus announces a three month pilot of historical crowding information for all lines - available in its official app, Transit. This feature uses recent passenger count data to share crowding predictions for buses, which will help riders make informed decisions about trip planning and physical distancing. Crowding predictions are calculated by Transit's engineers using regularly-updated ridership trend data from Big Blue Bus. Previously available on a few select buses, historical crowding predictions are now available for all Big Blue Bus lines in this pilot. Thousands of Big Blue Bus riders regularly use Transit to plan their trips. Several global studies have found that when masks are mandatory, as they are for Big Blue Bus and all transit services nationwide, riding public transit carries a relatively low risk for COVID-19 transmission. That risk is further reduced when physical distancing between riders is possible. Big Blue Bus is committed to providing an informative and easy-to-use service, and its partnership with Transit provides passengers with the tools they need to practice safe physical distancing. When users tap their line in Transit, they see a map showing the real-time locations of buses along their route. Now, the vehicle icon shows not just the last update of the vehicle's location, but also its predicted crowding level. Big Blue Bus regularly shares stop-by-stop ridership stats with Transit, whose team processes the data to make predictions in the app showing each vehicle's capacity level over the course of its route, depending on the time of day. Riders also have the ability to report the current passenger bus loads for their trip in real time, providing another useful data set for sharing crowding information. Updates from riders using the "GO" step-by-step navigator appear for 10 minutes in the app and temporarily replace crowding predictions based on ridership trends. These crowdsourced reports, when taken together, are used to validate Transit's capacity predictions based on automated passenger counter (APC) data from Big Blue Bus. Big Blue Bus is among the first of Transit's 75 agency partners to integrate data-driven crowding predictions. The feature was originally developed in partnership with LA Metro, which launched the feature with Transit in August 2020. For Big Blue Bus, four of every five capacity predictions in Transit have proven accurate when compared with actual ridership data. "We are excited to offer this new feature as a pilot to our customers, to help limit crowding and ensure to a safe return of riders back to our system," says Ed King, Director of Transit Services at Big Blue Bus. "We have reimagined our service to further protect customers and staff during the pandemic, and providing crowding information through Transit is yet another resource that customers can leverage to make informed decisions about when to ride transit safely." "This kind of information is a huge step in helping riders feel confident getting on the bus. And not just during the pandemic: it also makes a big difference if you use a wheelchair, you're carrying big luggage or you just want to feel more comfortable," says David Block-Schachter, Chief Business Officer at Transit. "Even after the pandemic, this new feature will benefit Big Blue Bus riders. It's been great to partner with an agency that's taking the lead on improving the rider experience." Transit is available to download for iPhone and Android at www.transitapp.com. For a press kit, including additional visuals, visit www.transitapp.com/press. MEDIA CONTACTS Jennie Campos Customer Experience Manager 310-458-1975 ext. 5541jennie.campos@smgov.net Stephen Miller Communications 617-440-4690 (voice or text) media@transitapp.com About BBB: Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency added its first zero emissions bus in 2019. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency. About Transit: Transit solves the urban commute in more than 200 cities worldwide. Users can easily navigate public transit with accurate real-time predictions, simple trip planning, step-by-step navigation and quick, easy payments. The app also integrates additional transport modes - bikesharing, scooters, carsharing and ridehail - so users can mix-and-match their options with public transit to determine the best way to get from A to B. The company is based in Montréal, QC. Learn more by visiting www.transitapp.com.Mon, 15 Mar 2021 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Fare-Collection---Front-Door-Boarding-Resume-on-February-14.aspxFare Collection & Front Door Boarding Resume on February 14 - Big Blue Bus will introduce a limited time discount for contactless payments SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) announces that on February 14, 2021, fare collection and front door boarding will resume on all buses. In March 2020, BBB suspended fare payment and required customers to board through the rear doors to support social distancing between Operators and customers. "We have retrofitted the fleet with laminated automotive safety glass protective barriers for the Operator's compartment. These new barriers, along with enhanced safety measures onboard, will help ensure that fare collection and front door boarding can safely resume for our customers," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. On February 14, BBB will also introduce a phased pilot program to study cashless boarding. The first phase includes the discontinuation of all paper pass sales on board its buses and at Blue: The Transit Store. BBB will continue to accept paper passes on board through April 2021. Customers are strongly encouraged to transition to contactless fare payments with TAP or mobile tickets using the Transit or Token Transit apps. To help incentivize this fare payment transition, for a limited time, BBB will discount Single Ride fares for those making contactless payments. When paying with TAP or a mobile ticket, Regular customers will ride for only $1 each way or just $0.40 for Senior/Disabled/Medicare (S/D/M) customers.   TAP cards can be purchased and preloaded with BBB passes or a specified amount (Stored Value) online at www.taptogo.net, by phone at 866.TAPTOGO, via the TAP app (available on iPhone and Android devices), in-person at  the Transit Store and over 400 TAP vendor locations, or Metro Rail Stations. Mobile tickets can be purchased for single rides and multi-day passes through Transit (BBB's official app) or Token Transit.   Blue: The Transit Store is open for in-person service with modified hours of operation. Customers can safely visit the store to purchase or reload passes and Stored Value on TAP, to pick up a Reduced Fare TAP card application, to sign up for reduced fares on mobile tickets, to pre-pay for MODE (Mobility On-Demand Every Day) trips, and more.   To learn more about TAP and mobile ticket options, please visit www.bigbluebus.com/contactless. Media Contact Jennie Campos 310-458-1975 ext. 5541jennie.campos@smgov.net About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency added its first zero emissions bus in 2019. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Wed, 10 Feb 2021 10:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Transit-Becomes-Big-Blue-Bus%E2%80%99s-Official-App.aspxTransit Becomes Big Blue Bus’s Official App - SANTA MONICA, CA - Today, Transit becomes Big Blue Bus's (BBB) official app for trip planning and real-time bus arrival information. As part of this shift, BBB is also partnering with Swiftly, Inc. to help deliver more accurate, consistent, and reliable data to power Transit.   "Combining the ease of use of the Transit app with the high-quality data provided by Swiftly will give our customers a very powerful and reliable tool that will improve their travel experience," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. "The app will alleviate the uncertainty of knowing when the next bus is coming to your stop and provides additional valuable features such as personalized service alerts and multimodal trip planning."  Transit allows BBB customers to see nearby options and departure times in big text and bright colors. Users can easily navigate Los Angeles County, aided by accurate real-time bus arrival times and trip planning, step-by-step navigation, and crowdsourced real-time information with Transit's GO feature. Transit also brings multimodal options together into one app, including LA Metro, other regional transit providers, bikeshare, e-scooters, and ridesharing services. When BBB resumes regular fare collection, Transit will integrate a mobile ticketing feature that will allow customers to purchase all BBB passes through the app. "Partnering with a single app that prioritizes transit makes it clear to riders where they can go for information," said David Block-Schachter, Chief Business Officer of Transit. "We're excited to work with Big Blue Bus and to see more people using Transit as part of their daily routine." Swiftly's prediction algorithm will be used to generate more accurate real-time predictions across BBB's customer communication tools including bus stops, via text message, phone, bigbluebus.com, and other third-party apps, such as Google Maps. Transit has millions of active users in more than 200 cities worldwide and is available to download for iPhone and Android at transitapp.com.  About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency added its first zero emissions bus in 2019. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Mon, 15 Jun 2020 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Implementing-Service-Changes-on-May-24,-2020.aspxBig Blue Bus Implementing Service Changes on May 24, 2020 - SANTA MONICA, CA - On May 24, 2020, Big Blue Bus (BBB) will adjust schedules on twelve (12) routes and suspend service on four (4) routes in response to the impacts of COVID-19. "Our goal is to preserve service based on ridership demand and social distancing guidelines while providing a critical service to our community," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. "We look forward to serving new and returning customers and will continue to maintain rigorous health and safety measures on board our buses." The goal of this service change is to address the needs of customers who have continued to ride BBB for essential trips since March, while being responsive to returning customers. BBB will retain 70% of a typical summer service schedule while providing sufficient service levels in order to maintain social distancing. Policies such as rear-door boarding, face covering requirements for customers riding BBB, and enhanced cleaning and sanitization efforts, will remain in place until further notice. Changes include: Rapid 3 and Rapid 7 will not be in service, instead customers can utilize Routes 3 and Route 7 service which maintains regular weekday frequency. Routes 42 and 44 will not be in service. Route 42 customers can utilize Route 41 instead. Weekday service on Route 2, Rapid 12 and Route 14 adjusted to every 18-25 minutes most of the day. Weekday service on Routes 8, 9, 17, and 18 adjusted to every 27-30 minutes most of the day. Weekday service on Routes 5, 15, 16, and Rapid 10 adjusted to every 50-60 minutes most of the day. Minor routes changes on Routes 9, 41, and 43. May Service Change details are available in both Spanish and English at bigbluebus.com/servicechange where customers can also preview and print schedules. Please note there will be no printed Little Blue Book or brochures on board buses. All third-party applications such as Transit, Google Maps and NextBus will display new schedules beginning Sunday, May 24. Customer Service staff will also be available to answer any questions at 310-451-5444, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Blue: The Transit Store located inside the GoSaMo Center will remain closed to the public until further notice. Media Contact Jennie Campos 310-458-1975 ext. 5541jennie.campos@smgov.net About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting passengers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the agency added its first zero emissions bus in 2019. The rest of the fleet operates on other alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Mon, 18 May 2020 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-announces-Single-Ride-passes-now-available-for-sale-through-popular-mobile-app-Transit.aspxBig Blue Bus announces Single Ride passes now available for sale through popular mobile app Transit - SANTA MONICA, Calif. - Starting today, Big Blue Bus riders can purchase Single Ride passes with Transit, the popular mobile application used by tens of thousands of Big Blue Bus riders every month to plan their trip, track their ride, make multimodal connections - and now, pay for their trip.    With the debut of integrated ticketing, the result of collaboration between Big Blue Bus, Transit, and Token Transit, riders can now pay for Big Blue Bus where they're already planning trips and tracking rides.    To purchase a ticket with Transit, riders can tap "buy ticket" next to the Big Blue Bus logo at the bottom of their screen inside the app. Transit guides users through a step-by-step process to enter payment information and purchase a Single Ride pass, which activates immediately upon purchase and can then be shown to a bus operator for validation. The ticket remains activated for 30 minutes after purchase.    Single Ride passes are just the start: all pass types will be available for purchase through Transit in winter 2020.    With Transit, riders see nearby options and departure times in big text and bright colors. Users can easily navigate Southern California, aided by accurate real-time bus ETAs and trip planning, plus step-by-step navigation and crowdsourced real-time information with Transit's GO feature. Transit brings multimodal options from different operators together into one app, including Big Blue Bus, Metro, DASH, bikeshare and scooters, as well as Uber and Lyft. This ease-of-use has made Transit  a hit with riders, and the app has millions of active users in more than 200 cities worldwide.    "Many Big Blue Bus customers already use Transit to plan trips and get real-time bus arrival information. Offering Single Ride passes in the app was a logical next step toward improving the ease of use and accessibility of our system," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services at Big Blue Bus. "Big Blue Bus is committed to giving customers more comfort, control, and choice in their travel experience."    "Hundreds of thousands of people across Southern California already open Transit every month to plan their trip, track their ride and make connections with ridehail, bikeshare and scooters. Adding Big Blue Bus Single Ride passes is a natural next step," said David Block-Schachter, Chief Business Officer at Transit. "By making it easy for riders to purchase tickets in their favorite app, Big Blue Bus is setting the tone for other transit agencies across the nation."    "Token Transit is excited to launch its first integrated trip planning and fare payment experience with Transit and Big Blue Bus. Giving riders the convenience of planning and paying for their trip in one app makes public transit much more accessible and we look forward to bringing this modern convenience to all of our 80-plus transit agency partners in the coming months," said Morgan Conbere, founder and CEO at Token Transit.     Today's announcement marks the first collaboration between Transit and Token Transit, the mobile ticketing provider for Big Blue Bus. It is also the latest multimodal deployment for Transit, which enables riders to pay for different mobility services across North America with a single account, including Big Blue Bus, RTD in Denver, Capital Bikeshare in Washington, D.C., Metro in Cincinnati, Divvy bikeshare in Chicago, Bike Share Toronto, and St. Catharines Transit in Ontario, Canada.    Transit is available to download for iPhone and Android at www.transitapp.com.    Visuals can be found at: https://transi.app.link/BBB-press   For a press kit, including additional visuals and Transit's logo, visit www.transitapp.com/press.    MEDIA CONTACTS      Jennie Campos  Community Engagement Officer  Big Blue Bus  310-458-1975 ext. 5541  jennie.campos@smgov.net   Stephen Miller   Communications Lead  Transit  617-440-4690 (voice or text)  media@transitapp.com   Sam Daly  Head of Operations  Token Transit  415-918-6770  sdaly@tokentransit.com   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting more than 44,000 customers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, sustainability, customer service, safety, and efficiency.    About Transit Transit solves the urban commute in more than 200 cities worldwide. Users can easily navigate public transit with accurate real-time predictions, simple trip planning, and step-by-step navigation. The app also integrates other transport modes - bikesharing, carsharing and ridehail - so users can determine the best way to get from A to B. The company is based in Montréal, QC. Learn more by visiting www.transitapp.com.    About Token Transit Token Transit lets riders pay for transportation. Using Token Transit, riders can purchase transit passes in the Token Transit app or a variety of trip planning mobile apps. Public transit agencies and mobility operators are using Token Transit payments to boost ridership, decrease costs, and improve service. Founded in San Francisco with the mission to improve access to multimodal transportation options across the United States, the company is helping 80+ public transit agencies and mobility operators provide an easy and convenient rider experience. For more information visit: www.tokentransit.com.    # # #Tue, 12 Nov 2019 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/City-of-Santa-Monica%E2%80%99s-Big-Blue-Bus-Rolled-Out-Its-First-Ever-Battery-Electric-Bus.aspxCity of Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus Rolled Out Its First-Ever Battery Electric Bus - SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Big Blue Bus (BBB) unveiled its first-ever battery electric bus during its ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 21, 2019. Guests had the opportunity to get a first-hand look at the technology, design features, and power capabilities, while also experiencing the quietness and smooth ride of the bus. “Today, marks a major milestone in our zero-emissions journey and our first step in our transition to a clean energy fleet by 2030. This will also mark a significant step toward preserving our environment and protecting our communities,” said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. “This milestone could not have been possible without the support of our City’s leadership and our partners at GILLIG and Cummins.” “We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with Big Blue Bus on its first zero-emission battery electric bus,” said Derek Maunus, GILLIG President and CEO. “Built on our proven Low Floor platform, our battery electric bus provides unparalleled safety and reliability as well as fleet commonality and continuity with BBB’s current 124 GILLIG buses.” “We are honored to partner with Big Blue Bus and provide market-leading, dependable solutions to begin its zero-emissions journey. Thank you, Santa Monica, for being role models moving people and communities forward,” said Julie Furber, Vice President – Electrified Power at Cummins. “Cummins’ more than 10,000 technical experts are passionate about finding new ways to deliver more sustainable technologies to power transportation.” The bus was built by GILLIG of Livermore, California, in collaboration with Cummins of Columbus, Indiana, who designed and manufactured the electric propulsion system for the bus. BBB partnered with GILLIG and Cummins to develop a cutting-edge bus that uses state-of-the-art battery electric technology and meets the high standards BBB customers have come to expect. Customer features include: 40-foot bus will seat 38 passengers Onboard complimentary Wi-Fi Passenger awareness monitor for enhanced security Q-POD wheelchair restraint system Silver LED destination signs for improved visibility EZ Stop System Equipped with six (6) onboard batteries, the bus is powered by 100-percent renewable energy, and can be fully charged in under four (4) hours, with a paired ChargePoint Express 250 installation. The bus uses a regenerative braking system that helps it reach a travel range of up to 150 miles on a single charge. In addition, the bus offers reduced noise pollution for residents and businesses, and a quieter, more relaxing ride for customers. Since 2014, BBB has led the way in the adoption of clean fuel, near-zero emissions buses, which has helped reduce its nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by more than 70 percent in the past three years. With plans to purchase and deploy an additional 18 battery electric buses by 2021, BBB will continue its strategic transition to full zero-emissions technology, while ensuring a consistent delivery of outstanding service quality for its customers and enabling its staff the opportunity to take an active role in the development and deployment of the new technology. For details on the battery electric bus and BBB’s Road to Zero, please visit bigbluebus.com/zero and view our video at https://youtu.be/h-WtZH2d0fw. About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting more than 44,000 customers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency. About GILLIG GILLIG is the leading manufacturer of heavy-duty transit buses in the United States. We offer a portfolio of clean energy propulsions ranging from battery electric and diesel to natural gas and hybrid electric, all designed on the proven GILLIG Low Floor platform to maximize fleet commonality. Since 1890, our dedicated employees have been supporting customers and delivering on promises to improve quality of life through transformative mass transit solutions. From initial design through final assembly, each GILLIG bus is designed and built by American workers in Livermore, California, who are committed to building and supporting the safest and most reliable transit buses in the United States. GILLIG buses are known for their unmatched quality and have earned their reputation as the lowest-cost buses to maintain and operate. Our products help reduce congestion, contribute to a cleaner environment, and provide mobility to all. GILLIG is also proud to create American jobs and recycle tax dollars back into the community to further support public transportation. Further information about GILLIG can be found at www.gillig.com. About Cummins Cummins Inc., a global power leader, is a corporation of complementary business units that design, manufacture, distribute and service a broad portfolio of power solutions. The company’s products range from diesel and natural gas engines to hybrid and electric platforms, as well as related technologies, including battery systems, fuel systems, controls, air handling, filtration, emission solutions and electrical power generation systems. Headquartered in Columbus, Indiana (U.S.A.), since its founding in 1919, Cummins employs approximately 62,600 people committed to powering a more prosperous world through three global corporate responsibility priorities critical to healthy communities: education, environment and equality of opportunity. Cummins serves customers in approximately 190 countries and territories through a network of approximately 600 company-owned and independent distributor locations and over 7,600 dealer locations and earned about $2.1 billion on sales of $23.8 billion in 2018. See how Cummins is powering a world that’s Always On by accessing news releases and more information at https://www.cummins.com/always-on. Follow Cummins on Twitter at www.twitter.com/cummins and on YouTube at www.youtube.com/cumminsinc. # # #Thu, 22 Aug 2019 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Introducing-the-New-Route-45-in-Downtown-Santa-Monica-and-a-Free-Ride-Starting-July-1.aspxIntroducing the New Route 45 in Downtown Santa Monica and a Free Ride Starting July 1 - SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Big Blue Bus (BBB) is launching its newest summer travel experience – Route 45, a new Downtown Santa Monica pilot route that will serve major destinations including the Santa Monica Pier and Beach, Ocean Avenue, Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Place, and the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line Station.Daily service begins July 1 through September 2, 2019, from 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., running every 12-15 minutes.“This summer, we plan to continue to enhance our services and customer experience by providing easy connections to major Santa Monica destinations with more options for site-seeing, dining and shopping. Route 45 is designed to be a convenient, eco-friendly, and economical way for residents, tourists, and visitors to get around Downtown Santa Monica. We would like everyone in our community to give Route 45 a try, so the first ride will be on us,” said Ed King, Director of Transit Services.Customers can make the easy connection from the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line Station and hop on the nearest Route 45 bus stop located across the street from the station at the corner of westbound Colorado Ave. and 4th St. Other key stops along Ocean Ave. and Santa Monica Blvd.To ride, customers can purchase and load Stored Value on their TAP card and pay $1.10 for a single-ride fare or $1.25 with cash payment. If a customer is transferring to/from Metro Bus or Rail (within 2.5 hours) their interagency transfer will be $0.50.This summer, customers can receive one free ride on Route 45. To claim your free ride and for additional route information, please visit: bigbluebus.com/hello45.About Big Blue BusBig Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting more than 44,000 customers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.###Mon, 24 Jun 2019 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Service-Change-%E2%80%93-March-17,-2019.aspxBig Blue Bus Service Change – March 17, 2019 - SANTA MONICA, Calif. – On March 17, 2019, Big Blue Bus (BBB) will adjust service on many routes and will reinvest those resources to add and expand service on four (4) bus routes while improving schedules on ten (10) others.“The reinvestments in our core service areas, coupled with other recent customer amenities, including on board Wi-Fi and solar-powered bus stop lights and real-time arrival displays, will allow us to improve the usability and accessibility of our system, and deliver an enhanced end-to-end experience that better aligns with the needs of our customers,” said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. “They will also help BBB retain existing customers and attract new ridership, while building toward a financially and environmentally sustainable future.”Some of the highlights include:• Service frequency improvements on nine (9) routes, for better connections and reliability during weekday commute and late-evening hours.• Major schedule changes on Rapid 3, Route 5, Rapid 7, Rapid 10, Route 15, and Route 42.• Extension of Route 7 to Wilshire/Western Station Purple Line on all days.• New Route 9 express trips to/from Palisades Charter High School on weekdays.• Rapid 10 regular fare is now $1.25 cash or $1.10 using Stored Value on TAP, and $0.50 for Senior/Disabled/Medicare customers. All Local passes are now accepted on Rapid 10.• Extension of Route 17 and Route 18 to UCLA on all days.For more details, visit: bigbluebus.com/servicechanges.Details of the March service changes, along with new schedules, can be found in the "Little Blue Book" transit guide, which is available on board, at Blue: the Transit Store, and at local public counters, such as local libraries and senior centers. BBB System Maps are also available at these locations. On March 17, updated bus arrival information will be available on third-party mobile applications, such as Google Transit, Transit App, Moovit, and CityMapper.About Big Blue BusBig Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting more than 44,000 customers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency. ###Wed, 13 Mar 2019 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/BBB-is-Brightening-the-Customer-Experience-with-New-Customer-Amenities.aspxBBB is Brightening the Customer Experience with New Customer Amenities - SANTA MONICA, Calif. – Big Blue Bus (BBB) announced the retrofit of 190 high-volume bus stops with solar-powered real-time signs and LED lights. The advancements are underway and expected to be completed by mid-2019. Also, BBB customers can now access free Wi-Fi onboard 19 of its newest 40-foot buses. BBB plans to retrofit additional buses and moving forward, Wi-Fi will be standard on all new buses.“Through our community engagement efforts, our customers helped us prioritize investments, which included Wi-Fi, improved bus stop safety through lighting and the addition of real-time information. In revamping the 190 high-volume stops, we aim to enhance the customer experience by taking the guesswork out of riding transit. The new additions combined with existing real-time signs means that 76 percent of all Big Blue Bus customers will soon have access to bus arrival information,” said Ed King, Director of Transit Services.The solar-powered real-time signs with LED lights will be installed at 166 City of Los Angeles bus stops and 10 City of Santa Monica large bus shelters. Additionally, solar-powered LED lights will be added to 14 small bus shelters in Santa Monica. In total, these stops average 26,908 daily pick-ups – each weekday, improving the bus stop experience for 61 percent of all customers systemwide.More than 500 BBB customers participated in an online survey that enabled them to vote for upgrades at their preferred bus stop locations. Customers provided substantial feedback on safety and performance. In addressing an essential need for improved safety, reliability of information and convenience in BBB’s service area, customers can look forward to the following:Enhanced Customer Safety• Equipped with two (2) push-button activated LED lights.• Increased customer safety and enhanced customer visibility in low light conditions.Greater Access to Real-Time Information• Bus arrival information can be easily read in daylight.• When the push-button is activated, a text-to-speech audio annunciator will inform customers when the next bus is arriving.• Information displayed will be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) character size requirements.• Signs will be programmed to display timely information about detours and bus stop closures.The real-time signs, lights and audio are powered by renewable energy, which is generated through solar panels located above each sign. The signs are fully manufactured in the U.S., using recycled aluminum and non-toxic batteries.Visit bigbluebus.com/safety to locate the selected bus stops in BBB’s service area and learn how easy it is to connect to free BBB Wi-Fi at bigbluebus.com/wifi. About Big Blue BusBig Blue Bus operates a fleet of 195 vehicles transporting more than 44,000 customers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.###Thu, 14 Feb 2019 00:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Partners-with-Lyft-to-Transform-Dial-A-Ride-Program-to--On-Demand-Service-for-Older-Adults-Living-in-Santa-Monica.aspxBig Blue Bus Partners with Lyft to Transform Dial-A-Ride Program to On-Demand Service for Older Adults Living in Santa Monica - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) is partnering with Lyft, the fastest growing rideshare company in the U.S., to provide on-demand services via a rebranded Dial-A-Ride program for older adults and people with disabilities living in Santa Monica. The new service called MODE, Mobility On-Demand Every Day, launches July 1 and will improve curb-to-curb and door-through-door transportation. Recent innovations in the delivery of transportation services are reshaping BBB's fundamental approach to service design. The development of smartphone apps and online reservation software has created an opportunity to offer real-time and reliable transportation options. Lyft's flexible transportation service network will allow MODE to meet the high demand for service during peak times when members are most interested in traveling while increasing efficiency when the demand for transportation decreases. This innovation addresses a long-standing issue with Dial-A-Ride, where members often encountered challenges booking a ride during high demand periods. Other improvements include: No requirement for advance scheduling on Lyft vehicles. More payment options through customers' smartphone device. For non-smartphone users and customers requiring a wheelchair accessible vehicle, the MODE Call Center will book on-demand trips during weekdays using SafeRide Health's platform with Lyft integration. Access to select medical centers outside the Santa Monica service area during MODE hours of operation.  Program elements that will remain the same for members include: Program eligibility requirements $0.50 per trip rate Hours of operation Santa Monica service area Evening and weekend excursion and shopping trips Ability to call to make a reservation  "This partnership is reflective of the changing mobility landscape and how transit agencies can adopt new technology to enhance the travel experience for MODE members throughout our City. Continuing to understand customer needs and meeting those needs through quick and innovative service delivery is critical to our success in providing outstanding and efficient service," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. "We are excited to partner with Big Blue Bus on the agency's innovative new MODE program, which is a great example of how Lyft can partner with cities and local transit agencies to decouple mobility from car ownership and encourage shared transportation alternatives," said Allen Narcisse, Lyft Los Angeles General Manager. Early registrants have already started taking Lyft rides as of June 1 and all Dial-A-Ride participants will be transitioned to the new MODE service by July 1. Existing program members have been contacted directly by BBB and WISE & Healthy Aging to encourage re-registration and transition to the new program. Non-members interested in signing up for MODE can visit WISE & Healthy Aging to register and to receive a tutorial on the Lyft app. To learn more about the MODE program, visit bigbluebus.com/mode. About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency. About Lyft Lyft was founded in June 2012 by Logan Green and John Zimmer to improve people's lives with the world's best transportation. Lyft is the fastest growing rideshare company in the U.S. and is available to 95 percent of the US population as well as in Ontario, Canada. Lyft is preferred by drivers and passengers for its safe and friendly experience, and its commitment to effecting positive change for the future of our cities. About SafeRide Health SafeRide Health is a digital health platform that improves access to care by delivering Lyft and medically qualified transport. SafeRide simplifies operations, improves patient outcomes and reduces cost for hospital groups, insurance providers and municipalities. SafeRide manages single site, regional and national programs. Learn more at saferidehealth.com. ###Tue, 26 Jun 2018 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus%E2%80%99s-Evolution-of-Blue-Plan-Receives-American-Planning-Association-Award.aspxBig Blue Bus’s Evolution of Blue Plan Receives American Planning Association Award - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) will be honored by the American Planning Association Los Angeles Chapter (APA LA) for its implementation of the Evolution of Blue Plan. The Evolution of Blue Plan restructured BBB service around the arrival of the Expo Line in its service area. The award is given to a planning effort that demonstrates a significant project accomplishing positive changes as a result of outstanding planning work in the Los Angeles region. To be eligible, projects must be completed within three years by a jurisdiction with a population of less than 100,000. The award recognizes best practices as well as thought-leaders in the planning arena creating more livable, vibrant, and inclusive communities. "Evolution of Blue was an unprecedented effort requiring staff to plan, train, and communicate with the public and stakeholders, and finally to implement an 18-month comprehensive set of service changes to the BBB system. It was all hands on deck during the project with every BBB employee serving as a customer experience ambassador. The high levels of customer engagement and employee participation were integral in re-designing and re-envisioning the future of our bus system," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. The Evolution of Blue Plan, adopted by the City Council in April 2015, was completed by BBB in conjunction with Nelson Nygaard Consulting. The plan featured extensive research and community engagement resulting in the: Introduction of six new bus routes Addition of 47 directional route miles of new service Creation of first-last mile improvements improving connectivity to jobs and services Integration to all seven new Expo Line Phase II stations Launch of Blue at Night an on-demand service providing first-last mile connections to Expo on weekend nights Construction of over 230 new ADA accessible bus stops Implementation of new bus stop spacing standards for faster travel speed Collection of over 12,000 public comments and over 4,600 survey responses during the multiphase outreach process About the Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency. ###Thu, 07 Jun 2018 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Receives-$3-Million-TIRCP-Grant-for-the-Electrification-of-its-Fleet.aspxBig Blue Bus Receives $3 Million TIRCP Grant for the Electrification of its Fleet - SANTA MONICA, CA - The California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) announced that Big Blue Bus (BBB) will receive a $3,050,000 grant for the purchase of 10 new zero-emissions battery electric buses (BEBs); funds will be provided through the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). This comes after a study session before the Santa Monica City Council on the electrification of BBB on April 24. The projects selected for this round of TIRCP grants make great strides in helping California transform the state transportation system. This grant will help BBB launch its "Electric Blue" project aimed at further reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing ridership. Through investments that support a transition to cleaner technology and providing efficient and reliable service along corridors serving disadvantaged and low-income communities, BBB will be moving closer to its 100% zero-emissions goal target of 2030. The new BEBs will enable BBB to complement existing service and continue providing critical first-last mile connectivity to Metro Rail stations throughout the Westside of Los Angeles. "Receiving this grant is an important step in launching the Electric Blue pilot and getting us on the road to a 100% zero-emissions fleet as envisioned by the Santa Monica City Council. Our continued commitment to sustainability will play a significant role in reducing not only the City's carbon footprint but our entire service area in our continuing effort to expand mobility options for our community," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. TIRCP funding is provided through Senate Bill 1 (SB 1) and from the proceeds of the Cap and Trade program. The program provides major benefits towards meeting the State's climate and air quality goals, with a total reduction of more than 32 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions. For complete details on SB 1, visit http://www.rebuildingca.ca.gov/. About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency. Tue, 01 May 2018 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Honored-with-the-Gold-Award-for-Bus-Safety--from-the-American-Public-Transportation-Association.aspxBig Blue Bus Honored with the Gold Award for Bus Safety from the American Public Transportation Association - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) was awarded the 2018 Bus Safety and Security Gold Award by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) in the category of Safety for transit agencies with more than 4 million but fewer than 20 million passenger trips annually. The Gold Award honors organizations with the best overall bus safety and security program for all transit organizations throughout the United States. Additionally, recipients play an integral part in benchmarking successful programs that can be adopted by other public transit systems aiming for similar benefits. "I would like to thank every BBB staff member for their contributions, especially our Motor Coach Operators who operate our fleet of 200 buses in one of the most congested and challenging service areas in the country. We have invested significant resources over the last three years to launch a comprehensive employee safety program that provides intensive training and retraining programs for all BBB staff. These strategic investments are paying off with a tangible reduction in preventable accident rates and passenger injuries. We are honored to have the hard work of staff recognized by APTA with this top award," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. BBB highlighted its proactive approach to reducing preventable accidents and improving system safety by enhancing its existing programs and introducing new ones. These enhancements included: Rollout of a comprehensive and interactive accident review and retraining process Extensive rail safety education campaign prior to the inauguration of Metro's Expo Line in 2016 Relaunch of BBB's "Hazard/Near Miss" employee safety reporting program Mandatory quarterly safety meetings for all Motor Coach Operators with safety topics focused on service delivery As a result, BBB has steadily decreased its preventable accident rate from 2.21 accidents per 100,000 miles in fiscal year (FY) 2015 to 1.83 accidents per 100,000 miles in FY 2017. The passenger injury rate also decreased from 1.89 injuries per 100,000 miles in FY 2015 to .41 injuries per 100,000 miles in FY 2017. About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency.Tue, 17 Apr 2018 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-to-Enhance-Customer-Experience-with-Innovative-Bus-Safety-and-Security-Improvements.aspxBig Blue Bus to Enhance Customer Experience with Innovative Bus Safety and Security Improvements - SANTA MONICA, CA – Big Blue Bus (BBB) has announced its next phase of fleet upgrades, which include new amenities that enhance comfort, safety, and security for both customers and Motor Coach Operators, and further reduce vehicle emissions. BBB will invest $18.3M in Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and California Proposition 1B Bond funds to replace fifty (50) 40-foot New Flyer buses purchased between 2004 and 2006. Seven (7) 30-foot Gillig buses will be placed in service this week; an additional twenty (20) 40-foot Gillig buses will be delivered and commissioned in October 2018. The agency plans to commission an additional twenty-three (23) 40-foot Gillig buses by December 2019. “We are making a significant investment to modernize one quarter of our fleet with new and exciting technology that will deliver a safer, more comfortable travel experience for customers and operators,” said Ed King, Director of Transit Services. “Further, reshaping our fleet with smaller, more agile 30-foot vehicles will create new opportunities for ridership growth by enabling us to safely and efficiently serve customers on narrower streets and corridors. The fleet enhancements are part of a larger series of strategic improvements we will roll out over the next 12-18 months.” BBB customers can expect to see the following improvements on board the new fleet: Sustainability: Buses will be equipped with Cummins-Westport Near-Zero engines and fueled by Renewable Natural Gas, to further reduce nitrogen oxides (NOx) vehicle emissions over 90% by December 2018. Passenger Awareness Monitor: A new 10-inch monitor will display a live feed from a security camera mounted near the front door. The monitor will enable customers to see themselves when boarding the bus, which will help increase safety and security for both customers and Operators, and deter crime and vandalism. The monitor will be integrated with the digital video recording (DVR) system on each bus, which consists of 14 cameras, located in both the interior and exterior of the vehicle. Wheelchair Securement: Buses will employ an ADA compliant, three-point securement system called the “Q-POD.” Its simplified operation will allow for quicker wheelchair securement times, reduced vehicle dwell time, and increased passenger comfort and safety. The system will also help reduce injuries caused by repetitive, labor-intensive processes. Retractable Seating: Located near the Q-POD will be two (2) forward-facing seats that can be stowed in an upward position, allowing customers to safely store carts, strollers, suitcases, and other bulky items, while keeping the aisle clear. Destination Signs: New silver LED destination signs are brighter and will be more visible to customers, especially in low-light conditions. Electric Assist Power Steering: A new power steering system will make vehicles easier to maneuver for Operators, while reducing fatigue and enhancing customer safety. The system uses a smaller handwheel for greater comfort, and sensors to respond intelligently to changing vehicle and environmental conditions. Slip Resistant Flooring: Buses will also feature durable and slip resistant flooring that allows for increased safety and easy maintenance. The average age of BBB’s current fleet is less than 7 years old, outpacing an industry best practice of 8.5 years. About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency. ###Mon, 26 Mar 2018 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Hosts-Public-Hearing-on-Proposed-Fare-Adjustments.aspxBig Blue Bus Hosts Public Hearing on Proposed Fare Adjustments - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) will hold a Public Hearing on Tuesday, August 1st from 6-7:30pm at the Santa Monica Main Library's Multi-Purpose Room to present and discuss modifications to existing fares and fare media.   In 2015, BBB initiated a strategic campaign aimed at reducing cash boardings across its system by encouraging more customers to use prepaid fare media, TAP cards, and mobile ticketing in an effort to: Speed up travel time and reduce stop dwell time (the time the bus spends at a scheduled stop to board and alight customers). Provide customers more flexibility in the way they pay fares. Provide more efficiencies for counting cash revenue. The next phase of BBB's cashless boarding strategy includes a proposal to adjust fares, including the following revisions: Reduction of the Regular one-way cash fare from $1.25 to $1.10 when a customer uses TAP to pay their fare; Introduction of a new Annual Pass for a sale price of $500, a $100 savings; Introduction of Blue to Business - BBB's Employer Annual Pass Program; Discontinuation of single-use tokens and introduction of a new TAP-enabled 1-Ride Pass as its replacement; No changes to Senior, Disabled and Medicare cash fares and passes; Requirement for Personal Care Assistants travelling with ACCESS certified riders to pay a fare, creating greater fare equity among all riders; and All other pass prices remain the same. See details of this proposal at www.bigbluebus.com.   "Continuing our efforts to understand customer needs and attracting new customers will be critical to our success in providing outstanding service to the City and the Westside. Introducing Blue to Business and the affordability of an Annual Pass, in addition to discounting our cash fare when prepaid on TAP, provides more options to our customers to purchase and pay their fares and further enhance the travel experience on our system," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services.   Customers who are unable to attend the meeting and would like to submit feedback are encouraged to do so via GO by visiting www.smgov.net/go and selecting the "Fare Adjustment Feedback" category. BBB will review all comments submitted during the comment period until August 12, 2017. After the public hearing, adjustments to the proposal may be made based on public feedback prior to submitting to the City Council for consideration and approval.    Getting to the Hearing Ride BBB Routes 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 9, 18, Rapid 3, Rapid 7, or Rapid 10 or Metro Expo Line or Metro bus Routes 4, 20, 33, 534, 704, 720 or 733 to the meeting. If you need to drive, parking is available in the library garage (enter on 7th St. just north of Santa Monica Blvd.).   Accommodations This venue is ADA-accessible. Disability and translation accommodation requests should be made at least three days prior to the meeting by calling 310.458.1975, ext. 5541. All written materials are available in alternate formats upon request.   About Big Blue Bus  Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Tue, 25 Jul 2017 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Introduces-Mobile-Ticketing.aspxBig Blue Bus Introduces Mobile Ticketing - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) has launched a mobile ticketing application pilot in partnership with Token Transit that gives customers a new and cashless fare payment choice.   As part of BBB's commitment to providing a better customer experience, the Token Transit application will evolve fare payment methods and allow customers to purchase and activate BBB passes using their smartphones before boarding the bus.   More than three-fourths of BBB customers own a smartphone and a system for easy mobile payments creates accessibility for everyone. With more accessibility, BBB hopes to attract and engage with new customers who might not ordinarily choose public transit as a means of mobility.   "Our goal is to allow customers to experience our service in a manner that's very familiar to them. Many customers are accustomed to using their smartphone as means of staying connected to friends, family, communities, in addition to conducting financial transactions. We believe the app provides another great option for cashless travel on BBB, and that will seamlessly integrate into the lifestyle of current and potential new customers," said Ed King, Director of Transit Services.   Forty-seven percent of BBB customers still pay fares by depositing cash into the farebox, as opposed to using prepaid forms of payment. A cashless fare transaction takes 4-5 seconds to conduct when boarding, whereas depositing cash in the farebox takes approximately 22 seconds.  In order to improve trip time speeds, which continually rank high in priority in BBB customer feedback surveys, BBB has rolled out a new solution to provide customers another option to pay fares, and reduce cash payments.      The program will be evaluated after a six-month period to determine whether customers feel that the App fare payment is beneficial, in addition to BBB staff determining the cost/benefit of adding the App to BBB's suite of fare media products.   For more information about the Token Transit pilot and a download link, visit www.bigbluebus.com/eticket.    About Big Blue Bus   Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.    About Token Transit   Token Transit is a mobile app to pay for public transportation. Using the Token Transit app, riders can purchase transit passes on their smartphones and board the bus by showing the driver a pass on their phone. Transit agencies are choosing Token Transit as a rapidly deployable alternative to smartcards in order to boost ridership, decrease costs, and improve service. Founded in San Francisco with the mission to increase access to public transportation across the United States, the company is helping transit agencies of all sizes provide an easy and convenient rider experience. For more information, visit: www.tokentransit.com or download 'Token Transit' on your iPhone or Android.   Media contact: Sam Daly Token Transit Co-Founder sam@tokentransit.com 608.469.8227Thu, 20 Apr 2017 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Service-Changes-%E2%80%93-February-19,-2017.aspxBig Blue Bus Service Changes – February 19, 2017 - SANTA MONICA, CA – Big Blue Bus (BBB) will adjust its service to better connect customers to the places they live, work and play. BBB will be adding service to six bus routes, and improving schedules on seven others, beginning February 19, 2017.   Major changes include:   The reinstatement of service to downtown Santa Monica on Route 5, seven days per week. The route will serve Santa Monica via Colorado Blvd., and Palms Expo Line Station all day on weekdays creating more service connections to Century City; weekend service will also improve to every 40 minutes. Route 7 weekday service will increase to every 15 minutes all day, to help meet customer demand for more local service on Pico Blvd. Route 43 will connect to 17th St./SMC Expo Line Station, Santa Monica College’s Main Campus, and both Route 7 and Rapid 7 service on Pico Blvd. Rapid 10 service will be discontinued west of Broadway and 4th St. in downtown Santa Monica and offer 20-minute weekday service during peak hours. UCLA students will see more service on Rapid 12, for better connectivity to Metro’s Expo Line, and schedule adjustments on weekends. Route 17 will serve UCLA’s Charles E. Young Terminal, instead of Hilgard Terminal; weekday service will increase to every 20 minutes. Furthermore, Route 18 will see schedule adjustments on weekday morning trips to UCLA and evening trips to Marina del Rey.     Customers can also expect to see scheduling changes and improvements on Routes 9, 14, 15, 41 and 42. Visit bigbluebus.com/servicechange to preview the new schedules.   “The changes we are implementing will enhance reliability, efficiency, and ease with which customers move across the region on our bus system,” said Ed King, Director of Transit Services at BBB. “They also address feedback received from customers since our last service change. For instance, customers indicated a desire for a one-seat ride from downtown to Century City and Palms, so we have restored Route 5 service from the Bergamot Expo Line Station to downtown Santa Monica,” said King.   Details of the February service changes, along with system-wide timetables, can be found in the "Little Blue Book" transit guide, which is available on-board, at the Transit Store, and at local public counters, such as local libraries and senior centers; Big Blue Bus System Maps are also available at these locations. In addition, bus arrival information is available on the NextBus real-time mobile application and Google Transit. The GTFS-realtime data which drives both applications will reflect new changes on February 19, so that customers have access to up-to-date information about bus locations, arrival and departure times.   About Big Blue Bus   Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 16 Feb 2017 00:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/City-of-Santa-Monica%E2%80%99s-Big-Blue-Bus-Names-New-Chief-Operations-Officer.aspxCity of Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus Names New Chief Operations Officer - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) announced the appointment of Rolando Cruz to the position of Chief Operations Officer.   Cruz brings more than two decades of experience in public transportation to Big Blue Bus. He most recently served as the Executive Director and Vice President of Maintenance and Facilities at Long Beach Transit in Long Beach, CA, and also held the positions of Maintenance Manager and Finance Manager during his tenure there. Cruz is a Certified Public Accountant in the state of Texas and holds an MBA and BBA in Accounting from the University of Texas. He is a graduate of the 2008 American Public Transportation Association (APTA) leadership program, a former Board Member and Chair of the Southern California Regional Transit Training Consortium, and a graduate of the Leadership Long Beach Program, where he currently serves as a Board Member. Cruz also currently serves as co-chair of the California Transit Association Maintenance Committee and is a member of the APTA Transit Asset Management Standards working group.   "We are excited to welcome Rolando Cruz to our organization. He is entering the agency at a time when we face many new challenges, but it is also a time of defining moments in our organization's history where we will establish new standards that raise the bar for service delivery to the Westside of Los Angeles and the City of Santa Monica," said King.   BBB hired a record number of staff during 2016, bringing on board 54 new staff including Motor Coach Operators, Maintenance Technicians, Operations and Maintenance Supervisors, and managers to support the Evolution of Blue campaign to provide first-last mile connectivity for customers to and from the seven new Expo Line stations in BBB's service area. Execution of the campaign resulted in the addition of six new routes, 56,000 new revenue service hours, 10 more buses in peak service, and 225 new bus stops in BBB's system. Initial counts after the opening of the Expo extension show 15% of all BBB passengers now making rail connections, more than double the number of passengers connecting to BBB from rail prior to the Expo extension.    About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 02 Feb 2017 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/City-of-Santa-Monica-Seeks-to-Increase-Mobility-Amongst-Youth-by-Further-Reducing-the-Cost-of-the-Big-Blue-Bus-Youth-Pass-to-$19.aspxCity of Santa Monica Seeks to Increase Mobility Amongst Youth by Further Reducing the Cost of the Big Blue Bus Youth Pass to $19 - SANTA MONICA, CA - On December 6, 2016 Santa Monica City Council approved a two-year pilot Youth Pass Program reducing the price of the Big Blue Bus (BBB) monthly youth pass to $19. The Big Blue Bus 30-Day Youth Pass is an unlimited ride 30-day pass available to all riders between five and eighteen years of age. The pass may be used on any line, any time during the month, and will be available year-round so it will be valid during non-school months as well.   In an effort to increase ridership among young people in Santa Monica and on the Westside, the City Council directed staff to discount the youth pass by $10 to $28 from the staff proposed price of $38 per month for a one-year period through December 31, 2016.   The discounted pass was extremely popular. During BBB's Buy One Get One (BOGO) program, which was a Council funded mobility initiative to incentivize youth ridership, sales of the youth pass totaled 2,915 through the end of September. This reflects nearly a 100% increase from the sale of youth passes for the same time period in 2015.   At its September 13, 2016 meeting, at the request of Councilmember McKeown, Council directed staff to explore and return with recommendations for a two-year pilot program offering extremely reduced-cost BBB passes for students, as part of the City's ongoing GoSaMo mobility initiative. Council highlighted that such a program would be in pursuit of one of the Council's adopted top-five priorities, mobility, with hopes of increasing safety and reducing individual private vehicular traffic near schools. "Big Blue Bus is extremely proud to be a strong partner in the City's focus on improving mobility and access to mobility," said Ed King, Director of Transit. "Incentivizing youth transit ridership reflects the City's commitment to encouraging behavior change, which can be a multi-generational effort toward appreciable shifts in mode choice," continued King.   The newly discounted $19 30-Day Youth Pass can be purchased, starting January 1, 2017, on any regular TAP card at Blue: the Transit Store (1444 4th St.) or online at TAPtoGO.net with a special youth reduced fare TAP card. Paper passes are also available. More information on where to purchase BBB passes can be found at bigbluebus.com/Fares/Where-to-Buy-Passes.aspx.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 54,000 customers daily across a 58-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Fri, 09 Dec 2016 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Receives-Nearly-$900,000-for-Clean-Fuel-Engine-Improvements.aspxBig Blue Bus Receives Nearly $900,000 for Clean Fuel Engine Improvements - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) has announced it will receive $870,000 from the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee’s (MSRC) Near Zero Engine Incentive Program. The funds will be used to upgrade the agency’s compressed natural gas (CNG) engines, which will further reduce emissions and extend the lifespan of its vehicles.   Big Blue Bus will use the grant approved by the MSRC to partially fund the purchase of fifty-eight new Cummins-Westport 8.9L ISL G Near-Zero 0.02 NOx engines; the first mid-range engine in North America to receive emission certifications from both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board (ARB), that meet the 0.02 g/bhp-hr optional Near Zero NOx Emissions standards. The new engines will be installed over a period of 3 to 4 years, at a rate of 12 to 18 buses per year.   In June 2015, Big Blue Bus was awarded $5.9 million from the Federal Transit Administration, to purchase nine new CNG buses. The recent procurement of both CNG buses and engines will help the agency reduce its current nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions by over 90% in 2018.   “The funding provided by the FTA will strengthen BBB’s vigorous pursuit of sustainable and environmentally responsible practices, in virtually every facet of our operations,” said Ed King, Director of Transit Services for Big Blue Bus. “It will also enable us to make long-term investments in new technologies that ensure the efficiency of service to our customers and the future scalability of the agency.”   “Big Blue Bus’ steady procurement of low-emitting, alternatively-fueled vehicles is very much indicative of an ongoing, citywide commitment to sustainability, while providing a strong, affordable, reliable regional transit system. Their efforts continue to play a significant role in reducing the City’s carbon footprint, including its greenhouse gas emissions, while mitigating the adverse effects of climate change in our region,” said Santa Monica Mayor Tony Vazquez.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of almost 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which reduces emissions by over 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing and outreach, customer service, safety and efficiency.Tue, 15 Nov 2016 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Service-Route-Changes-%E2%80%93-August-21,-2016.aspxBig Blue Bus Service Route Changes – August 21, 2016 - Changes coming in the final phase of Evolution of Blue    SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) is introducing major route and schedule changes as part of the final phase of the Evolution of Blue campaign, which is BBB's service integration with the new Expo Light-Rail Line. The Evolution of Blue plan's roll out began last August and aims to provide easy first-last mile connections to the Expo Line. The final phase will include changes on several routes and schedules beginning August 21, 2016.     Major changes include the truncation of the Route 1 in Venice. The Marina del Rey segment of the route will be discontinued and will be replaced by service on the updated Route 18. Service to downtown Santa Monica will begin on Main St. and Market St. just north of Windward Circle providing critical connections to the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line Station. The Route 18 will be extended from Venice's Abbot Kinney south to Marina del Rey via Abbot Kinney and Washington boulevards. Service from Marina del Rey to Santa Monica and UCLA will begin on Via Marina and Admiralty Way. Weekday service will increase to every 20 minutes during peak hours and weekend schedules have also been updated. The Route 5 will also see changes when service is discontinued west of Olympic Blvd. and 26th St. Customers are advised to use Metro's Expo Line or Route 1 via Santa Monica Blvd. for east/west service. Beginning Sunday, Route 5 will operate between 26th St./Bergamot Station and Palms Station via Century City. Lastly, the Rapid 10 will see the discontinuation of weekend service. Alternate service to and from Downtown Santa Monica and Downtown Los Angeles is available via the Expo Line.   Santa Monica College students will see better frequencies on Routes 41, 42 and 44 which all connect with the 17th St./SMC Expo Line Station and more late night trips departing after 10:30pm going to Koreatown/Purple Line Station. And, UCLA students will enjoy an increase in service on Rapid 12 during peak hours. Additional modifications include regular bus stop and/or schedule changes to Rapid 3 and Routes 2 and 44. See full details at bigbluebus.com/servicechange.   Santa Monica locals are encouraged to try Blue at Night which provides first-last mile connections from Expo. The on-demand service is available Friday and Saturday nights from 8pm to 3am, providing late-night connections to or from the 17th St./SMC Expo Station for only $3. Residents can easily request a Blue at Night cab during service hours by dialing 877-611-8294. View a service area map and more details at bigbluebus.com/blueatnight.   "The August Service Change, marks the final milestone in the major redesign of Big Blue Bus routes that began last August," said Transit Director Edward F. King. "In the last year, we increased service by 11%, launched an on-demand late evening service, introduced six new routes, hired almost 20 new motor coach operators, purchased new vehicles, and added 200 new bus stops to our system. These combined efforts have resulted in greater service and connectivity with the Expo Line thereby providing more convenient transportation options throughout BBB's service area," continued King.   Details of the August service changes along with system-wide timetables and maps are available in the "Little Blue Book" transit guide, which is now available on board, at the Transit Store and at local public counters such as local libraries and senior centers. In addition, bus arrival information is available on the NextBus real-time mobile application and Google Transit. The GTFS-realtime data which drives both applications will reflect new changes on August 21 so that customers have access to the most up-to-date data informing them of bus locations, arrival and departure times.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 customers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 18 Aug 2016 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Director-Appoints-Four-New-Hires.aspxBig Blue Bus Director Appoints Four New Hires - Strengthens Commitment to Evolution of Blue   SANTA MONICA, CA - The City of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus (BBB) announced, today, the addition of three new hires, and one promotion from within the public transportation agency. Collectively, their expertise will play a vital role in equipping Big Blue Bus to meet the rapidly changing mobility demands of the Southern California transit landscape to provide greater connectivity and access to numerous transportation modes in a safe, reliable and environmentally sustainable manner.   Joining Big Blue Bus are Eric O'Connor, Liseth Guizar, and Robert McCall, in the position of Chief Administrative Officer, Safety and Training Manager, and Transit Community Engagement Coordinator, respectively. Jennie Campos has been promoted to Transit Community Engagement Officer.   Serving most recently as Director of Project Management and Finance for the Exposition Construction Authority, O'Connor helped successfully deliver the $2.5 billion light-rail project on time and under budget. Bringing more than 20 years of finance and project management experience to Big Blue Bus, he will be responsible for financial operations, grant management, budgeting, payroll, procurement, and administrative functions. O'Connor holds a Bachelor's degree from Michigan State University, and an Accounting degree from California State University, Northridge. He is also a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the State of California.   Guizar has over 11 years of public transit experience in safety, training and security, as well as significant private sector experience in risk management. For the last 3 years, she has served as Safety, Security and Risk Manager for the Santa Cruz Metropolitan Transit District (SCMTD). At Big Blue Bus, Guizar will chiefly be responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of all components related to the agency's Safety Program Plan, which includes safety and security training for all employees. Guizar has a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento, and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Troy University.   With expertise in marketing strategy, project management, social media, web analytics, and copywriting, McCall will be responsible for the coordination and implementation of large-scale community engagement campaigns and objectives, including oversight of marketing materials intended to increase ridership and support of Big Blue Bus services. Prior to joining Big Blue Bus, he served in the private sector as both a Marketing Manager and Marketing Consultant. McCall holds a Bachelor's degree in Applied Arts from Central Michigan University, and a Master's degree in Communication Management, from the University of Southern California.       Previously serving as Transit Community Engagement Coordinator, Campos took the lead in recommending and implementing various modes and media for Big Blue Bus to expand its communication reach, thereby, strengthening the agency's brand recognition across the region. In her new position, Campos will be responsible for developing, organizing, directing, and evaluating a comprehensive program to inform the community and public at large of the direction, objectives, and activities of Big Blue Bus. Prior to joining Big Blue Bus, she worked at Orange County Transportation Authority, where she served as a Marketing Specialist. A graduate of UC Santa Barbara, Campos earned her Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Global Studies, and Master's degree in Political Science from UC Riverside.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of almost 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which reduces emissions by over 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing and outreach, customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 18 Aug 2016 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/American-Public-Transportation-Association-Awards-Big-Blue-Bus-for-Its-Sustainability-Program.aspxAmerican Public Transportation Association Awards Big Blue Bus for Its Sustainability Program - Big Blue Bus Committed to Sustainability    SANTA MONICA, CA - The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) announced today that it is recognizing Big Blue Bus (BBB) with a Silver Status Award for its sustainability program at the APTA Sustainability Conference in Austin, Texas.   First started in 2009, 133 public transit agencies and businesses have signed on to the APTA Sustainability Commitment Program. Currently, 38 of these signatories have received recognition from APTA. The APTA Sustainability Program recognizes outstanding sustainability achievements which have met specific criteria through the APTA Sustainability Commitment program. Public transit agencies and businesses that voluntarily participate in the APTA Sustainability Commitment program commit to implementing processes and actions that create continuous improvements in environmental, social, and economic sustainability.  Depending on the level of accomplishments, organizations are presented Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Level certifications.   Big Blue Bus has long been recognized as a national leader for its sustainability practices. Since the 1990's, BBB has utilized alternative fuel buses to reduce its carbon footprint. BBB Director Ed King adds, "Big Blue Bus' long-term commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is demonstrated over decades of proactive choices in fuel and engine type, as well as continued greening of its facilities. BBB is honored to be recognized by APTA with this prestigious award for its sustainability program."   Big Blue Bus, in its Sustainability Commitment Statement submitted to APTA's Sustainability Program, identified 16 sustainability actions that it has completed to date, and committed to achieve six new short-term action items as well as four "stretch" items to be completed over the next few years. A few of the projects the agency is most proud of include:   The construction of LEED certified Maintenance Facility.  The use of Renewable Natural Gas (RNG), a bio-gas derived from harvested landfill methane, to fuel BBB's LNG and CNG fleet.  Retrofitting 30 buses by replacing the existing Cummins ISL G engine that produced 0.2 NOx and installing the ISL G Near-Zero emission engine that is certified at only 0.01 of NOx. The NOx emissions in these 30 buses will be reduced by 95%.  Procurement of 25 new 40- foot buses with the Cummins ISL G Near-Zero emission engine in 2016.Tue, 26 Jul 2016 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Service-Summer-Route-Changes---June-12,-2016.aspxBig Blue Bus Service Summer Route Changes - June 12, 2016 - Major route and schedule changes coming in the third phase of Evolution of Blue     SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) is rolling out the third phase of major route and schedule changes as part of the Evolution of Blue campaign, which is BBB's service integration with the newly opened Expo Light-Rail Line. The first phase of the Evolution of Blue plan to provide first-last mile links and easy connections to Expo launched in August 2015. The third phase will include changes on several routes and introduction of new routes beginning June 12, 2016.    Route 4 and 12 will be discontinued. The Route 4 will be partially replaced by service on the new Route 17 at the VA West LA Medical Center and portions of Sawtelle Blvd. Other portions of the Route 4 along San Vicente Blvd. will be picked up by Routes 9, 18 and the new Route 43. The new Route 43 provides weekday only connections from San Vicente Blvd. and 14th St. to the 26th St./Bergamot Station via 26th Street. Route 12 will be replaced by improved Rapid 12 service on Westwood Blvd., Overland Ave., and the UCLA campus offering better frequencies and service seven days a week. Other portions of the former Route 12, previously serving the Culver City Expo Line Station, National Blvd., Palms Expo Line Station, and Palms Blvd., will be picked up by the new Route 17. Additionally, the Route 44 will no longer travel on 20th St. or Pico Blvd.; instead routing will change to provide critical connections to the newly opened 17th St./SMC Station. Additional modifications include regular bus stop and/or schedule changes to Rapid 3 and Routes 5, 8, 14, 15, 16, and 18. See full details at bigbluebus.com/servicechange.   As part of the June changes, Big Blue Bus will introduce a new service called Blue at Night on June 17 in Santa Monica, which provide residents and visitors improved first-last mile connections from Expo. The new on-demand service will be available Friday and Saturday nights from 8pm to 3am, providing late-night connections to or from the 17th St./SMC Expo Station for $3. Santa Monica locals will now have a convenient late evening option and can easily request a Blue at Night cab during service hours by dialing 877-611-8294. View a service area map and more details at bigbluebus.com/blueatnight.   "The summer Service Change, marks another exciting step in the major redesign of Big Blue Bus routes that began last August. The launch of Expo light rail on May 20 ushered the return of rail to the Westside after 63 years, energizing an eager public considering new ways of getting around town," said Transit Director Edward F. King "Big Blue Bus' goal is to tap into this new market of customers by providing innovative service options like Blue at Night and easy connections to Expo Line stations. On June 12, every Big Blue Bus route will connect to one or more Expo stations, thereby opening up the region to more people and places," continued King.   The award winning "Little Blue Book" transit guide, which includes schedules for each BBB route and a large foldout System Map, is now available on board, at the Transit Store and at public counters such as local libraries and senior centers. The NextBus real-time mobile application and GTFS-realtime data will reflect new changes on June 12 so that customers have access to the most up-to-date data informing them of bus locations, arrival and departure times.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 customers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Fri, 10 Jun 2016 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/City-of-Santa-Monica-Approves-Multi-Year-Contract-with-Clean-Energy%E2%80%99s-Redeem%E2%84%A2;-Fuel-to-Support-Deployment-of-CWI-Near-Zero-0-02-NOx-Engine.aspxCity of Santa Monica Approves Multi-Year Contract with Clean Energy’s Redeem™; Fuel to Support Deployment of CWI Near-Zero 0.02 NOx Engine - City of Santa Monica Approves Multi-Year Contract with Clean Energy’s Redeem™; Fuel to Support Deployment of CWI Near-Zero 0.02 NOx Engine June 2, 2016 NEWPORT BEACH, CALIF. – Clean Energy Fuels Corp., (NASDAQ: CLNE) announced that the City of Santa Monica has awarded Clean Energy a multiyear liquefied natural gas (LNG) contract to fuel its Big Blue Bus (BBB) fleet of vehicles. The 5-year deal, worth an estimated $3 million per year, will enable BBB to continue using Clean Energy’s Redeem™ brand of renewable natural gas (RNG), rated up to 90 percent cleaner than diesel and considered the cleanest transportation fuel available. BBB began using Redeem™ by Clean Energy in January 2015. BBB, one of the first transit agencies in the nation to contract for Redeem™, will also become one of the first agencies to incorporate the new Cummins-Westport 8.9L ISL G Near-Zero 0.02 NOx engine, the first mid-range engine in North America to receive emission certifications from both U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Air Resources Board (ARB) in California that meet the 0.02 g/bhp-hr optional Near Zero NOx Emissions standards. Big Blue Bus, which includes 200 natural gas buses, plans to replace over 100 of their existing bus engines with the new Near-Zero natural gas engine over a three-year period, making BBB one of cleanest transit agencies in the nation. When the transition is complete, BBB is expected to have reduced their NOx emissions by over 90 percent and their GHG emissions by 8,000 Metric Tons, annually. Introduced by CWI earlier this year, the new Cummins ISL G 8.9L Near Zero 0.02 NOx engine is designed for medium-duty truck, urban bus, school bus and refuse applications and is available on the market today. Cummins-Westport plans to begin delivering an 11.9L version that is also EPA and ARB certified for the heavy-duty trucking industry in 2018.   “The City of Santa Monica has a deep commitment to the people and environment in our community. By combining the environmental benefits of RNG with the technological advances of this engine, we are proud to say that we are in fact, one of the cleanest transit agencies in the nation,” said Ed King, BBB’s Director of Transit. The City of Santa Monica is a nationally recognized leader for its sustainability policies and actions. BBB has progressively contributed to the City’s sustainability narrative through its use of alternative fuel and ultimate phasing out of diesel-fueled motor coaches. Through this commitment, clean burning RNG and the new 0.02 NOx engine will power BBB’s entire fleet. “Big Blue Bus has always been a leader in sustainability and with our Redeem™ RNG and the implementation of the new Near-Zero engine, we are about to witness the future of the transportation industry and the incredible advances we’ve made in reducing the impact on the environment,” said Peter Grace, Clean Energy’s senior vice president for sales and finance. For more information about the BBB’s Redeem fueling success story click here. Clean Energy believes that Redeem™ is the cleanest transportation fuel commercially available in the U.S. according to EPA data regarding carbon emissions for transportation fuel. Redeem™ is a renewable natural gas vehicle fuel, often referred to as biomethane. It is derived from biogenic methane or biogas, which is methane that is naturally generated by the decomposition of organic waste. The methane gas is processed, purified and sent into the interstate natural gas pipeline and made available exclusively to Clean Energy customers. Redeem™ biomethane vehicle fuel is procured from biomethane production facilities, including two owned and operated by Clean Energy. Clean Energy Media Contact: Jason Johnston949-437-1411jason.johnston@cleanenergyfuels.com Clean Energy Investor Contact:Tony Kritzer949-437-1403tkritzer@cleanenergyfuels.com Big Blue Bus Media Contact:Suja Lowenthal310-458-1975 x6920Suja.Lowenthal@smgov.net About Clean EnergyClean Energy Fuels Corp. (Nasdaq: CLNE) is the leading provider of natural gas fuel for transportation in North America. We build and operate CNG and LNG fueling stations; manufacture CNG and LNG equipment and technologies; develop RNG production facilities; and deliver more CNG and LNG fuel than any other company in the U.S. Clean Energy also sells Redeem™ RNG fuel and believes it is the cleanest transportation fuel commercially available, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90 percent. For more information, visit www.CleanEnergyFuels.com. About Big Blue BusBig Blue Bus operates a fleet of nearly 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 02 Jun 2016 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Buy-One,-Get-One-Free-Promotion-Celebrates-Big-Blue-Bus-as-a-Connection-to-the-New-Expo-Line.aspxBuy One, Get One Free Promotion Celebrates Big Blue Bus as a Connection to the New Expo Line -   SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus is celebrating the return of rail to Santa Monica with a Buy One, Get One Free (BOGO) promotion, while supplies last. Santa Monica residents, visitors, current and new Big Blue Bus customers, one and all, are encouraged to try Big Blue as their connection to and from the Expo Line opening on Friday, May 20.   Beginning in August 2015, Big Blue Bus has rolled out a series of changes called the Evolution of Blue, designed to provide first-last mile links and easy connections to Expo, meeting the needs of many Big Blue Bus (BBB) customers and attracting customers that may not have considered public transport a viable option in the past. Signaling a new wave of mobility options in the City of Santa Monica, the City Council committed $575,000 in general funds for the BOGO promotion to encourage and incentivize public transportation use.   "Big Blue Bus' significant investment in improving the way we move and connect on the Westside, coupled with City funds to promote the return of rail after 60 years, is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to generate excitement around choices," said Transit Director Ed King. "Getting people out their cars via easy connections to Expo, and providing a mobility landscape that enables customers to connect to people, places, and experiences has been the larger goal. And, that type of access ultimately results in a better quality of life," King continued.   Beginning on May 13th, we encourage new and existing customers to visit one of two locations in Santa Monica to BOGO. These locations are Blue: the Transit Store (1444 4th St.), and the new Mobility Center located in the lobby of the Santa Monica City Hall (1685 Main St). Purchase any Big Blue Bus fare product(s) on a TAP (Transit Access Pass) card and receive Big Blue Bus fare product(s) of equal or lesser value for free. For seamless and cashless travel between Big Blue Bus and the Expo Line, Stored Value is a great option that allows you to use one card. Load a TAP card with Stored Value (up to $20 per visit), and you will receive an equal amount of Stored Value for free. Visit bigbluebus.com/bogo for a complete list of eligible fare media.   The BOGO promotion is limited to $110 free value, per person, per week and will run while supplies last. All fare media must be loaded onto a TAP card which will be available for purchase for $2 each. For more details visit bigbluebus.com/bogo.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 customers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG), a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 12 May 2016 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Service-Changes-on-February-21,-2016.aspxBig Blue Bus Service Changes on February 21, 2016 - Big Blue Bus Service Changes on February 21, 2016  Major route changes coming in second phase of Evolution of Blue      SANTA MONICA, CA – Big Blue Bus (BBB) is embarking upon the second phase of major service and stop changes as part of the Evolution of Blue campaign, which is BBB’s service integration with the upcoming Expo light rail launch. The first phase of the Evolution of Blue plan to integrate BBB’s service with the Expo Light Rail Line rolled out in August 23, 2015, and the second phase, which will include changes on several routes, will begin on February 21, 2016.    Route 16, which is a new route, will provide service from West Los Angeles (Wilshire Blvd. and Bundy Dr.) to Marina del Rey serving the 26th Street/Bergamot Metro Rail Station along its route. Route 3M will become the new Route 18 with extended southern service from Downtown Santa Monica to Venice’s Abbot Kinney. Route 1 routing will change from Ocean Ave. to 4th St. to provide convenient connections to the Expo terminus at the Downtown Santa Monica Metro Rail Station, and provide new service to Marina del Rey. Weekend service will be added on Route 41 along with direct connections to the 17th Street/SMC Metro Rail Station, and new stops adjacent to Santa Monica College. The new Route 42 will provide counterclockwise service to Route 41, seven days a week beginning the first day of Metro Rail service. Additional modifications include regular bus stop changes and schedule changes to Routes 3, Rapid 3, 5, 7, Rapid 7, Rapid 10, 14, and 15. See full details at bigbluebus.com/servicechange.   Transit Director, Ed King says, “The Evolution of Blue continues this February with expanded service to key destinations such as Venice’s Abbot Kinney and Marina Del Rey, and more regional service connections to the Exposition Light Rail Stations. We know that Big Blue Bus service making first-last mile linkages to a major light rail line are critical connections for regional mobility. With the imminent opening of Expo Line Phase II, this is a phenomenal opportunity to attract new riders if it is connected seamlessly and in as many convenient locations as possible. Big Blue Bus has positioned itself as one critical piece of the mobility solution by providing north-south connectors approximately every half mile to seven new rail stations along the Expo Line, with origins/destinations to high density areas and job centers. We expect that these phased service changes will increase system-wide ridership, providing true mobility freedom, flexibility and choice.”   To stay on top of these service changes, BBB has updated its entire suite of customer information products. The award winning “Little Blue Book” transit guide, which includes schedules for each BBB route and a large foldout System Map, is now available on board, at the Transit Store and at public counters such as local libraries and senior centers. To ensure they get the new version, customers can look for the lime green band showing the new effective date of February 21, 2016.   Customers can also find a comprehensive bilingual brochure onboard all buses summarizing the changes they can expect on February 21. Additionally, customers may now preview new schedules and interactive maps by selecting the route of their choice at bigbluebus.com/servicechange. The new maps show the full complement of bus stops on each route, which is especially useful with the many changes taking place over Evolution of Blue. The NextBus real-time mobile application and GTFS-realtime data will reflect new changes so that customers have access to the most up-to-date data informing them of bus locations, arrival and departure times. Lastly, BBB provides regional seamless fare payment as customers can now pay with TAP cards.   Big Blue Bus fares are $1.25 per ride on all routes with a $1.25 upgrade fee on the Rapid 10 Express to Downtown Los Angeles. Regularly-priced monthly passes are $50. All BBB passes are available on TAP cards and can be purchased online at taptogo.net.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of over 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 customers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.   CONTACT: Suja Lowenthal 310.458.1975, ext. 6920 Suja.Lowenthal@smgov.netTue, 16 Feb 2016 12:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Fare-Change-Effective-January-10,-2016.aspxBig Blue Bus Fare Change Effective January 10, 2016 -   Big Blue Bus Fare Change Effective January 10, 2016   SANTA MONICA, CA – Big Blue Bus (BBB) fares will change on Sunday, January 10, 2016. BBB will adjust the regular base fare cash price from $1 to $1.25, offer a new 7-Day Pass for $14, and reduce many pass prices; the price of a Youth 30-Day Pass, for example, will drop from $40 to $28, and a Regular 30-Day Pass will drop from $60 to $50. Senior, Disabled and Medicare cash fares, including the $0.50 reduced base cash fare, and all other reduced rate pass prices will remain the same. See full details at BigBlueBus.com/fares.   Throughout the past five years, BBB has held the line on fare increases while maintaining high quality services and implementing new customer amenities such as NextBus, TAP card system and 3-position bike racks. In addition, BBB will be adding 11% more service over the next 12 months as part of the Evolution of Blue campaign to provide connections to the upcoming Expo Light Rail Line. The additional operating revenue will ensure a balanced operating budget.   A major objective for BBB in 2016 is to speed up bus boarding and improve travel speed. Reducing pass prices will increase the attractiveness of pass use, improving the speed of boarding and subsequent travel times. This offers the combined benefit of reducing the cost of operating the routes and getting customers to their destinations more quickly.   When the change takes place, regular fares will be $1.25 per ride on all routes plus a $1.25 surcharge on the Rapid 10 Express to Downtown Los Angeles. Regular priced day-passes that allow unlimited rides in a calendar day will remain at $4 and will require an upgrade fee of $1.25 on the Rapid 10. All passes are available on TAP cards and can be purchased online at taptogo.net, as well as at BBB’s Transit Store and other locations in Santa Monica, visit bigbluebus.com for a list of locations.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of nearly 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.   CONTACT: Suja Lowenthal 310.458.1975, ext. 6920 Suja.Lowenthal@smgov.netWed, 06 Jan 2016 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Mayor-McKeown-to-Present-Santa-Monica%E2%80%99s-Ambitious-Climate--Action-Project-and-Progress-at-Paris-Climate-Summit.aspxMayor McKeown to Present Santa Monica’s Ambitious Climate Action Project and Progress at Paris Climate Summit -   SANTA MONICA, CA - This week kicks off the highly anticipated 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference (also known as COP21 for the 21st Gathering of the Conference of Parties) in Paris. Though only national governments can be negotiation parties, cities and regions will play a crucial role in setting the tone for ambitious climate action, with Santa Monica being among them.   Amidst the high-level climate negotiations, a weeklong series of activities and learning is programmed for local government climate leaders. The Cities & Regions Pavilion will be the central point for cities and regions at COP21.   Hosted by the City of Paris and Bristol European Green Capital 2015 and facilitated by ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability, the Pavilion will showcase the Transformative Actions Program (TAP), which calls on local governments to submit the most ambitious, cross-cutting and inclusive projects with the potential to transform the lives of their citizens within the next 10 years.   The City of Santa Monica submitted a project that would convert the Big Blue Bus (BBB) fleet to run fully on electricity, charged by a massive solar array with battery storage at the bus facility. The transition to an emission-free bus fleet would reduce the City's emissions by 5,500 metric tons of CO2 each year, equivalent to taking 1,158 vehicles off the road. BBB is a national leader in sustainability practices. Named as one of the nation's top 100 bus fleets by Metro Magazine, BBB became one of the country's first municipal transit authorities to convert its fleet to renewable natural gas (RNG) from landfill-generated methane and seeks to advance the latest technology to provide emission-free transportation.   Transit Director Ed King adds, "Transit Maintenance Officer, Getty Modica, and the Maintenance Division team have been instrumental in their commitment to bluer skies by providing the most technologically advanced vehicles and vehicle propulsion systems, vehicle fueling opportunities like RNG, and for keeping BBB on the cutting edge of climate change solutions. Our entire team is committed toward environmental leadership and electric transit vehicles will drive us and our customers towards a cleaner and greener future."   Mayor McKeown will present the conceptual project to an audience of international development agencies and public financial institutions at the Pavilion on December 4, at 11 a.m. local time. He will be presenting among six other North American cities.   Mayor McKeown noted, "Santa Monicans can be proud of our long-term leadership on sustainability.  We are known internationally for our innovation, and for our commitment on climate change.  Being invited to present at this global gathering is an honor Santa Monica has earned, because our residents, our businesses, and our City staff continue to support Santa Monica's pioneering environmental efforts."   Since 1990, Santa Monica has reduced its emissions 14% below 1990 levels and has committed to achieving an 80% reduction by 2050. The City will sunset its current 15x15 Climate Action Plan, which seeks to reach a stated reduction goal of 15% by 2015, and prepare a long-range plan to continue reducing emissions and adapting to climate change impacts.   Overall, the project submitted is one of over 120 projects from 88 cities and regions in 42 countries from around the world. It will be on display at the Cities & Regions Pavilion, and is currently featured on the TAP website at http://tap-potential.org/projects/big-blue-bus-electrification/.   Future mayor Tony Vasquez and former mayor Pam O'Connor will also be representing Santa Monica and the United States delegation, respectively. O'Connor also serves on the North American Regional Executive Committee of ICLEI- Local Governments for Sustainability. The Office of Sustainability and the Environment developed a one page graphic to communicate the City's climate action successes and commitments, which can be found at http://www.smgov.net/uploadedFiles/Departments/OSE/Climate/SM_Climate_Infographic.pdf.    About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of nearly 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Mon, 30 Nov 2015 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Long-Time-Big-Blue-Bus-Director-Hutchison-Dies.aspxLong Time Big Blue Bus Director Hutchison Dies - SANTA MONICA, CA - John F. "Jack" Hutchison a long-time leader of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus and Santa Monica resident has passed away at age 85.    Hutchison served as Director of Transportation of the Big Blue Bus from 1967 to 1995. During that time he worked to make the agency a national model for high quality fixed route transit. Hutchison prided himself on making the Big Blue Bus efficient, reliable and affordable. Twice during his tenure the Big Blue Bus was named national transit operator of the year for its size by the American Public Transit Association (APTA).     Hutchison's ability to establish a financial reserve in the 1980's allowed the Big Blue Bus to accrue funds which paid for the Downtown Santa Monica and 26th/Bergamont Station Expo Rail stations which will open next year. Director of Transit Services, Edward F. King stated, "Jack's vision for the City of Santa Monica is still being felt today."        Some of Hutchison's operational accomplishments while in Santa Monica include the extension of bus service to Marina Del Rey and Los Angeles World Airport; establishing two crosstown routes; and initiating freeway express service from Santa Monica to downtown Los Angeles.    Hutchison served on local, state and federal transit advisory and technical committees, chairing the California Transit Association and serving as an APTA regional director. Specifically, Jack helped write the landmark State of California Transportation Development Act which allocates transit operating and capital dollars. In addition, he worked to establish funding procedures which fairly allocated Los Angeles County sales tax dollars to Santa Monica and other Municipal Operators. After his long career in public transit Hutchison was inducted into the APTA Hall of Fame.      Hutchison was born and raised in Scotland and came to Santa Monica in 1967 after working for the Omaha and Council Bluffs Street Railway. It was during his time in Omaha where he earned his Certified Public Accountant status.      Hutchison is survived by his wife, Dolores. Jack is also survived by three children and six grandchildren.      About Big Blue Bus   Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of nearly 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51 square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency.Tue, 06 Oct 2015 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Public-Hearing-on-BBB-Proposed-Fare-Adjustments.aspxPublic Hearing on BBB Proposed Fare Adjustments - SANTA MONICA, CA – Big Blue Bus (BBB) will hold a Public Hearing about the proposed fare adjustment on Thursday, September 10th from 6-7:30pm at the Santa Monica Main Library’s Multi-Purpose Room.   Throughout the past five years, BBB has held the line on fare increases while maintaining high quality services and implementing new customer amenities such as NextBus, TAP cards and 3-position bike racks.  BBB will be adding 11% more service over the next 12 months as part of the Evolution of Blue campaign to provide connections to the upcoming Expo Light Rail Line. In order to ensure a balanced operating budget and encourage customers to use new fare media, BBB is proposing several revisions to its current fare policy, including an increase in the regular base fare cash price from $1.00 to $1.25, the creation of a new 7-Day Pass for a sale price of $14.00, and an adjustment to pass prices such that in many cases prices are reduced. Senior, Disabled and Medicare cash fares, including the $0.50 reduced cash base fare, and all other reduced rate pass prices will remain the same. See full details at BigBlueBus.com.  A major objective for BBB in 2016 is to speed up bus boarding and improve travel speed. This can be achieved by encouraging more customers to use prepaid fare media. Cash customers require almost six times as long to complete payment, compared to customers using a magnetic stripe card or TAP card. This difference in boarding speed of cash customers produces a drag on system efficiency, as all passengers must wait for each transaction to complete before the bus can move forward. Increasing the percent of customers using prepaid fares through discounted pass prices increases the attractiveness of pass use, while simultaneously lowering the cost of operating the routes. The fare restructure as proposed, will encourage greater use of prepaid fare media and is expected to contribute to the reduction of cash payment customers from 48% to 35%. A peer analysis was also conducted comparing fares on other transit agencies and the results indicate that the average one-way fare in the region is $1.25. Peer agencies included Long Beach Transit, Foothill Transit, Los Angeles Metro, Omnitrans, Culver City Bus, and Torrance Transit. In October BBB will take feedback from the September 10th Public Hearing, and staff will prepare a detailed Consent Calendar report summarizing community/customer feedback to the above referenced proposals and seek Council approval for the changes. BBB fares are currently $1 per ride on all routes with a $1 surcharge on the Rapid 10 Express to Downtown Los Angeles. Day-passes are available for $4 that allow unlimited rides in a calendar day and regular priced monthly passes are $60. All passes are available on TAP cards and can be purchased online at taptogo.net.  About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of nearly 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including renewable natural gas (RNG) a form of liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by up to 90 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its marketing, customer service, safety and efficiency. ###Thu, 03 Sep 2015 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Service-Changes-on-August-23,-2015.aspxBig Blue Bus Service Changes on August 23, 2015 -  SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) is preparing to meet the train, embarking upon major service and stop changes over the next twelve months as part of the Evolution of Blue campaign. The first phase of the Evolution of Blue plan to integrate BBB's service with the Expo Light Rail Line will begin on August 23, 2015 as BBB rolls out major changes on several routes. Route 15, which is a new route, with service along the Barrington Avenue corridor, will be added. Routes 5 and 14 will be modified, including new service to Playa Vista on the Route 14. More service, including during weekends, will be added on the Rapid 3 and Rapid 7, in addition to regular bus stop changes. Three routes will be discontinued - Routes 6, 13 and Rapid 20. See full details at bigbluebus.com/servicechange.   In addition to the route changes, riders will see further improvements in customer serving tools available to them. The award winning "Little Blue Book" system-wide schedule for BBB routes that includes a large foldout System Map is now available on board, at the Transit Store and strategic locations such as local libraries and senior centers. To ensure they get the new version, customers can look for the red band showing the new effective date of August 23, 2015.   In an effort to expand customer communication tools and technology improvements, BBB has recently launched a new website feature with a Google Maps insert on each of its route pages. The new maps show the full complement of bus stops on each route, which is especially useful with the many changes taking place over the next year. BBB launched the NextBus Real Time Mobile Application in July so that customers have access to real time data. Lastly, BBB provides regional seamless fare payment as customers can now pay with TAP cards.   Transit Director, Ed King says, "BBB is in an incredible time of opportunity for our community and our customers, a time of change as our team works to transform all of our routes over the next year." King adds, "These changes were vetted over an 18-month period with stakeholders, the community and customers. Sometimes change is challenging, especially for customers who will be asked to change their travel patterns. Our goal is to maintain service locally and provide regional access to and from Santa Monica using public transit and trains that are convenient and reliable for even more customers. More people on buses and trains translates to fewer cars on the road, a tremendous benefit to everyone in the region with improved quality of life."   Big Blue Bus fares are $1 per ride on all routes with a $1 surcharge on the Rapid 10 Express to Downtown Los Angeles. Day-passes are available for $4 that allow unlimited rides in a calendar day and regular priced monthly passes are $60. All passes are available on TAP cards and can be purchased online at taptogo.net.   About the Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of nearly 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 20 Aug 2015 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Senator-Boxer-Meets-with-Big-Blue-Bus-on-Expo-Line-Service.aspxSenator Boxer Meets with Big Blue Bus on Expo Line Service - Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA) met with Big Blue Bus Director of Transit Services, Ed King, on July 18 in Santa Monica to discuss Big Blue Bus' (BBB) Expo Integration Plan.  While taking a tour of the Downtown Santa Monica Expo Line Station, King briefed Senator Boxer on the BBB service integration plan named, "Evolution of Blue." The new plan will inaugurate six new routes, 53,000 new annual revenue service hours, install over 230 new stops and expand the BBB fleet. These improvements are necessary to ensure that BBB provides first-last mile connectivity to the seven new Expo Line stations in its service area. King adds, "The Senator was very interested in learning how the new Big Blue Bus service was going to integrate with the Expo Line and how the first-last mile connections were being made."  Senator Boxer also reviewed a newly wrapped Big Blue Bus promoting BBB's clean fuel campaign message and highlighting the fact that all BBB buses are now fueled with Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) called Redeem™. Redeem™ is rated 90% cleaner than diesel and is considered the cleanest transportation fuel available. Redeem™ is non-fracked methane harvested from organic waste in landfills.  Senator Boxer called on Santa Monica to support her proposal named Developing a Reliable and Innovative Vision for the Economy (DRIVE) Act, S.1647. DRIVE is a six-year Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill which would increase funding above current levels and would help address the nation's massive infrastructure investment backlog.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of almost 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Fri, 24 Jul 2015 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus,-Fueling-a-Renewable-Future-One-Bus-at-a-Time.aspxBig Blue Bus, Fueling a Renewable Future One Bus at a Time - The City of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus (BBB) announced today that it has become one of the country's first municipal transit authorities to convert its fleet to renewable natural gas (RNG), rated 90% cleaner than diesel and is considered the cleanest transportation fuel available. Earlier this year, BBB modified  its original agreement with Clean Energy Fuels Corp (Nasdaq: CLNE)  to transition the supply of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) for its fleet to Clean Energy's Redeem™ renewable LNG (Redeem™), which  is non-fracked methane harvested from organic waste in landfills.    With the announcement, BBB unveiled a new Bus ad campaign called "Bigger, Bluer, Skies" to emphasize the lower emissions and sustainability of this type of fuel.   Big Blue Bus has been fueling its LNG and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fleet of motor coaches with fuel supplied by Clean Energy since 2012. The process of harvesting and processing Redeem™ provides a product that has fewer impurities than conventional natural gas and is a cleaner burning fuel source.   "City Council has voiced its support for non-fracked, sustainable sources of fuel, and Redeem™ delivers a fuel made entirely of waste; a more sustainable product at an equal cost. This makes BBB's partnership with Clean Energy to use the Redeem™ fuel a win-win solution," said BBB's Transit Director, Ed King.  The City of Santa Monica is a nationally recognized leader for its sustainability policies and actions. BBB has progressively contributed to the City's sustainability narrative through its use of alternative fuel and ultimate phasing out of diesel-fueled motor coaches. Through this commitment, clean burning and Renewable Natural Gas now power BBB's entire fleet. The modification to the original agreement with Clean Energy to furnish and deliver Renewable Methane Gas, as a replacement for traditional Liquid Natural Gas, is cost neutral to the City. The addition of Redeem™ is a next step in BBB's and the City's sustainability portfolio.    "Big Blue Bus is a leader in sustainability and our ability to partner with it and provide a completely recyclable natural gas fueling option helps reduce emissions locally and shows other cities the power in using Redeem™ renewable fuel," said Peter Grace, Clean Energy's senior vice president for sales and finance.      About Redeem™:  Renewable Liquefied Natural Gas, Redeem™, is non-fracked methane, harvested from landfills. This gas has historically been burned off into the atmosphere. However, with advances in renewable technology, the gas is now harvested through a series of membranes implanted in the ground of landfills. Renewable Methane Gas is processed through a filtration and refining process and transported via pipeline to end users. As a result of the harvesting and filtration process, it is found that Renewable Methane Gas has fewer impurities than conventional Natural Gas and thus is a cleaner burning fuel source. Operating City transit buses through this waste-to-energy fuel source, Big Blue Bus contributes to fulfilling the City's commitment to protecting the  Environment by utilizing the cleanest transportation fuel source available.    To watch a short video about how Redeem™ is made, see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VapWtJGVEw.   About the Big Blue Bus  Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.   For media inquiries please contact:    Big Blue Bus Suja Lowenthal 310.458.1975, ext. 6920 Suja.Lowenthal@smgov.net Clean Energy Gary Forster 949.437.1000 Gary.Foster@cleanenergyfuels.comWed, 15 Jul 2015 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Rolls-Out-NextBus-Real-Time-Arrival-Information.aspxBig Blue Bus Rolls Out NextBus Real-Time Arrival Information - Riding the bus just got a lot easier in Santa Monica, California. Big Blue Bus, which operates 200 transit vehicles around Santa Monica and the Westside region of Los Angeles, has completed its rollout of real-time passenger information to the public.   Last month, the agency opened its General Transit Feed Specification realtime (GTFS-realtime) data at the City’s Hack the Beach event. Big Blue Bus became only the second agency in the state (following BART in the Bay Area), and the first in Southern California, to openly publish information in GTFS-realtime, signaling the agency’s commitment to open data and innovation. Now, Big Blue Bus has launched a mobile application, NextBus real-time information so that transit riders can access the specific location of their bus and predicted arrival time at their stop.  Without this information, during non-business hours, customers have no way of knowing if their bus is on schedule or not, due to traffic, weather, construction, or other reasons beyond Big Blue Bus’ control. Thanks to Big Blue Bus’ GTFS-realtime feeds, Google Maps can now publicly display Live Transit Updates as well as service alerts. Third-party application developers have the ability to use these feeds to create their own apps, and apps such as City Mapper, Transit and Moovit are already using BBB’s live feed. The agency began building its GTFS-realtime feed in order to supply information to NextBus. NextBus improves upon what appears in Google Maps because it provides bus arrival predictions based off of GPS information and historical travel time data. For customers without smartphones, arrival information can also be accessed by using the texting service or by calling, provided customers know their bus stop’s four-digit number. The agency will begin rolling out signs with bus stop IDs throughout the system this summer. By text:  Customers can text “SMBBB” followed by a space and by the stop number to 41411 to get real-time arrival predictions via a reply text message. By phone: Customers can call 310-451-5444 at any time of the day or night and enter their stop number to receive up-to-the-minute arrival predictions.  NextBus also has apps available for Android and iOS smartphones.  With the NextBus rollout, Santa Monica riders now have access to the same arrival information system used by other major operators in Southern California, including Los Angeles Metro and UCLA, for a more seamless transit experience across the Southland. “We’re delighted to be working with Big Blue Bus to make transit easier for riders, and to bring tools to managers to help them serve their customers,” said Lillian Chan, general manager of NextBus. BBB’s Transit Director, Ed King, adds, “Real-time trip planning has been one of our top customer requests, so improving customer experience for riding our system is a primary objective. With NextBus real-time arrival information available, riders have the convenience of knowing when their bus will arrive, so they can spend less time waiting and more time on other activities. Having real-time arrival information available will reduce anxiety and uncertainty associated with using the bus.  The operations planning tools that the NextBus system provides are a significant bonus, and will contribute to a winning combination of better service and additional feedback to further increase transit ridership and quality of life in our region.” About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency. About NextBus, Inc. As a leader in real-time passenger information, NextBus provides arrival predictions to over 160 transit operators worldwide, including five of the top ten largest transit agencies in North America. With NextBus, passengers can access arrival information for their transit vehicles and stops in a number of ways—through NextBus smartphone apps, third-party apps, desktop browsers, SMS/text messaging, phones, and signs. With the NextBus system, managers of transit also have access to a suite of tools to help them optimize their systems, including live vehicle monitoring, replay maps, and customized reports. NextBus, Inc. is a subsidiary of Cubic Transportation Systems (CTS), a business of Cubic Corporation (NYSE: CUB). CTS is a leading integrator of information technology and services for intelligent travel solutions around the world.Wed, 08 Jul 2015 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Awarded-$6-9-Million-for-New-Buses-and-Expo-Bus-Stop-Improvements.aspxBig Blue Bus Awarded $6.9 Million for New Buses and Expo Bus Stop Improvements - SANTA MONICA, CA - Big Blue Bus (BBB) has announced it will receive $6.9 million from the Federal Transit Administration's Section 5307 discretionary fund to upgrade the agency's fleet and create bus stops for its new Expo related service.    Big Blue Bus was given $5.9 million to upgrade the agency's all-alternative fuel bus fleet. The funds will purchase nine replacement compressed natural gas buses. The new vehicles will replace buses that have been on the road more than 12 years. The new buses will provide a more comfortable commute experience for customers and reduce vehicle maintenance costs. In addition, the new vehicles will reduce emissions released into the environment.   Big Blue Bus also received $1 million for new bus stop improvements. The Santa Monica City Council recently adopted a new operating plan which will meet the demands of the Expo Light Rail Line coming to Santa Monica next year. The new service plan includes extensive changes throughout BBB's entire service area and will require new stops systemwide. The funds would provide for bus signage and provide ADA accessibility at the new stops. BBB Director Ed King adds, "Identifying funding for the bus stops is a key step to implementing BBB's Expo related service as six new routes and changes to nearly all 20 BBB routes require the construction of 204 new stops."   For more details on the Big Blue Bus service changes coming to connect with Expo please click here.   About Big Blue Bus Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 189 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 25 Jun 2015 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-will-hold-a-Public-Hearing-for-Expo-Service-Planning-on-April-28,-2015.aspxBig Blue Bus will hold a Public Hearing for Expo Service Planning on April 28, 2015 - On April 28th, the Santa Monica City Council will review and discuss the final Big Blue Bus recommendations and report for integrating BBB service with Exposition Light Rail. A Public Hearing will be held during the agenda item to receive public comment.  Staff will request that the council adopt  the revised Big Blue Bus operating plan for new and restructured BBB routes and schedules that will include 6 new routes, first-last mile connectivity, a greater north-south orientation of BBB service, and proposed changes for 19 of the 20 BBB routes that serve the 51-sqaure mile BBB service area.  The Expo Integration Plan process included extensive public outreach, a survey of existing conditions, a City Council Study Session, and a resulting recommended plan of action.     See details, and a link to the City Council Agenda, at www.bigbluebus.com/expo.  The area served by Big Blue Bus (BBB) is changing in ways that promise to have significant impact on transportation and BBB services over the next several decades.  BBB Director Ed King adds, “This is the most significant change for the BBB service network in our 80 plus year history, a milestone event that will provide seamless integration with light rail, as well as with our regional partners in Los Angeles County.   To date BBB service has served light rail only at the periphery and this is an outstanding opportunity to serve rail in our core. The changes to our system will attract new rail-to-­bus transfers that will increase ridership and reduce overall congestion in Santa Monica and the Westside, therefore creating greater multi-modal opportunities for commuters to access jobs, housing, schools, retail, recreation and more.” The primary objectives of the plan are: Creating first-and-last mile connectivity Creating more north-south corridor service to serve the stations Reducing redundancy with other transit providers Eliminating inefficient routing; improving speed and reliability; and maximizing resources Acknowledging that current BBB service must continue to serve local passengers, markets, and customers that do not interface with Expo A study session was held at the December 16, 2014 Council Meeting to review the Expo Integration Plan and obtain Council direction prior to final review and adoption. The plan recommended at the time provided the above enhancements to the BBB system and called for a 9% increase in annual revenue service hours.  The updated proposal includes an increase of approximately 11% in revenue service hours. Based on feedback from the Council and stakeholder comments received after the December 16th presentation, the revised Big Blue Bus Expo Service Integration Plan includes changes to four of the 20 routes: Route 16 was extended to create a connection to Routes 3 and Rapid 3 on Lincoln Boulevard Route 18 has been revised to add night service until 9:30pm, seven nights per week, as well as weekend day service, and both this new night service and the weekend service are recommended at a frequency of every 30 minutes. This route also was rerouted slightly due to LADOT feedback regarding operating challenges on various corridors in Venice. Route 43 was originally recommended a span of service from 6am to 9am and 3pm to 6pm, but now includes service from 6am to 9am and 2pm to 7pm. Route 44 was programmed at frequency of every 20 minutes at the December Study Session. As a result of feedback offered by Santa Monica College, the recommended frequency is now every 15 minutes all day from September through June, and every 30 minutes all day for the months of July and August.  About the Big Blue Bus The Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, the Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency. Key Milestones  Milestones Start Finish First Expo Online Survey Jun 2013 Sep 2013 Data Collection, Establish Baseline of Existing Conditions Oct 2013 Dec 2013 Create an Anticipated Demand Model Jan 2014 May 2014 First Round of Community Meetings Feb 2014 Apr 2014 Second Expo Online Survey Feb 2014 Jun 2014 Create Dedicated Web Page for Project May 2014 Jul 2014 Route Design & Implementation Plan of BBB Services Mar 2014 Nov 2014 Publish Draft Expo Integration Proposal Jun 2014 Jun 2014 Second Round of Community Meetings Jul 2014 Aug 2014 Third Expo Online Survey Jul 2014 Oct 2014 City Council Study Session on Plan Dec 2014 Dec 2014 Final Service Recommendations and Adoption of Plan by City Council March 2015 March 2015 Public Hearings April 2015 April 2015 Promote Council Decisions May 2015 June 2016 Implement Service Changes Aug 2015 Aug-Sep 2016 Follow Up Study June 2017 Dec 2017Tue, 28 Apr 2015 18:30:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/February-Service-Change.aspxFebruary Service Change - Big Blue Bus Launches More than Just Service Changes on February 8, 2015 Minor route changes are coming and a whole lot more…. SANTA MONICA, CA - February schedule adjustments are standard at Big Blue Bus (BBB) and February 8th will bring the usual minor tweaks to schedules and routes; Route 3M will be extended farther south, to Pico and 4th Street, to provide better service near Santa Monica High School, Route 5 will include more downtown Santa Monica service to make better connections with other BBB service, and trip times on 7 other routes will be slightly adjusted. See details at www.bigbluebus.com/servicechanges. While residents will not see big changes in BBB route structures, riders will see many improvements in customer service tools available to them. The biggest change is a new comprehensive system-wide schedule that BBB is calling "The Little Blue Book". It includes all twenty BBB route schedules as well as a large foldout System Map. BBB has also launched a new homepage trip planner link using Google Transit which returns all transit information for the region, augmenting the display of trip options well beyond BBB's service area. Providing this trip-planning option allows customers to evaluate transit options from BBB as well as other agencies so that they can determine for themselves the best option for their commute needs. There are many more good changes around the corner. In a continual push to improve customer serving tools, BBB is launching a few improvements to its digital media, fare media options and how customers can access information critical to their commute. Easy to print schedules and bus stop lists for individual routes are now available on BBB's website. Starting in March, BBB will begin accepting TAP cards that allow the use of "stored value" fare payment and quick acceptance of EZ transit pass regional fare media. Later in the summer BBB also expects to launch "Nextbus" service, which will provide customers bus locations and expected arrivals in real time. BBB Director Ed King adds, "Customers have been asking for convenient access to reliable information for trip-planning purposes. We are listening and using their suggestions to improve our trip-planning tools to make it even easier to get around. I am proud that our Customer Service team is non-stop in searching for and implementing easy-to-use tools to enhance rider knowledge and rider experience." Big Blue Bus fares are $1 per ride on all routes with a $1 surcharge on the Rapid 10 Express to Downtown Los Angeles. Day-passes are available for $4 that allow for unlimited rides in a calendar day and regular priced monthly passes are $60. About the Big Blue Bus The Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of nearly 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, the Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Tue, 03 Feb 2015 08:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Honors-Retirees%E2%80%99-150-Years-of-Service.aspxBig Blue Bus Honors Retirees’ 150 Years of Service - Big Blue Bus Honors Retirees’ 150 Years of ServiceFour long-time employees will retire in December.  SANTA MONICA, CA – Big Blue Bus will soon bid adieu to four long-time team members with nearly 150 years of combined service.  BBB employs a team of 300 Motor Coach Operators to deliver 61,000 trips per day and 43 Mechanics who maintain a fleet of nearly 200 vehicles. Big Blue Bus commends these experienced road ambassadors for their many years of service to BBB customers in Santa Monica and BBB’s greater Los Angeles service area.  Tim Giroux, Santa Monica Resident and BBB’s longest driving Motor Coach Operator, with 40 years on the road, will drive his final Big Blue Bus route on December 12th. When asked about his many years on the job, Giroux says it was the passengers he’s most enjoyed. “I was able to develop relationships with some customers from the time they were in high school. I’ve watched them become adults and start their own families,” he says. “You get to know them well and come to care about them.” In his years of service, Giroux has driven approximately two million miles.  Motor Coach Operators Vincent Murillo, with 35 years of service, and Jesse Webb, with 34 years of service, will also be covering their final shifts late in December.  Murillo sums up his service experience; “My job is about working with people, and Big Blue Bus combined my love for people and driving. And, I strove to be the best driver I could be for my customers.”  Webb adds, “I love being helpful and my job is about helping people and sharing information to help get them to their destinations.”  Edward Anderson, Maintenance Supervisor, has been keeping buses running in BBB’s shop for 38 years. He has enjoyed his years working with his hands as a “bumper to bumper” mechanic, maintaining and repairing every inch of every BBB model in the bus yard with precision, and helping BBB’s team in the shop to come up with creative solutions for mechanical challenges, large and small, for BBB’s fleet running entirely on low emissions natural gas. Anderson enjoys restoring muscle cars and is looking forward to more time with his grandchildren and traveling.   “Motor Coach Operators have to be the type of people who find it rewarding to serve the public and provide mobility options to customers from all walks of life. We will all miss these experienced team-members. We believe sharing their stories will inspire a new generation of BBB Motor Coach Operators and Mechanics to drive our customers into the mid-21st Century,” says Edward King, Transit Director of Big Blue Bus. See more about these folks at bigbluebus.com.   About the Big Blue Bus The Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of over 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, the Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 11 Dec 2014 00:00:00 -0800https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/The-Big-Blue-Bus-rolls-out-new-high--volume-stops-at-Santa-Monica-College.aspxThe Big Blue Bus rolls out new high- volume stops at Santa Monica College - SANTA MONICA, CA - Today the Big Blue Bus opened the first stops with real-time signage as part of its two-year Bus Stop Improvement Project. The previous 50 stops already completed had the project's low-volume design, intended to enhance locations with fewer than 50 daily passenger boardings with new seating and an identifying canopy.  The first two stops to open with the high-volume treatment will be on both sides of Pico and 18th Street, which is utilized heavily by students from Santa Monica College (SMC). At these stops, BBB has installed a larger sign unit for the display of route maps and real time signage which will show the predicted real-time arrival information for the next three buses, along with their route number and destination. The stops at SMC are also the first of the medium and high-volume stops to open since BBB announced the changes it was making to the project design. The redesign of the double seat is not complete, so the SMC stops will receive single seats in the interim. BBB plans to open an additional group of medium and high-volume stops early in September: Lincoln at Pico (southbound, toward LAX) Lincoln at Ocean Park (northbound, toward downtown Santa Monica) Main and Ocean Park (northbound, toward downtown Santa Monica) Main and Ashland (northbound, toward downtown Santa Monica) BBB will be installing solar-powered lighting at these locations, and a real-time sign at Lincoln at Pico (southbound).   Project Updates The redesign of the double-seat unit is underway with anticipated modifications to the seat size, spacing, and the arm/back configurations. Redesigned double-seats will be installed at bus stop locations and positioned to maximize driver and rider sight lines. Updated double-seats will also replace most of the single and original double-seats installed at stops constructed to-date. To accommodate more riders, high volume stops may receive the full range of seating units which will include the original and updated double-seats as well as single seats. Additionally, the refuse bins will be redesigned with enlarged openings to facilitate deposits of to-go boxes and other larger items.  All new locations will receive the new bins, while previously installed bins will be updated with the larger openings. BBB has already announced that in response to feedback from the community, the design of low volume stops will be modified where feasible to include shade structures, more accommodating seat design and placement of refuse bins so that sight lines are not blocked. While the low volume stops were not originally intended to include shade structures, Public Works and BBB staff are reviewing locations to determine if a shade structure can fit in the sidewalk without obstructing local businesses and disrupting existing infrastructure. Shade structures include two 6-foot diameter discs mounted on a pole, whereas the canopy structures originally designed for lower volume stops include one 5-foot diameter disc. Three low-volume locations already identified to receive additional shade structures are: Wilshire at 26th in both directions Lincoln at Ashland (northbound) Other modifications under consideration include using 6-foot discs in lieu of the 5-foot discs to match the medium and high volume stops. The BBB Bus Stop Improvement Project was launched to enhance the bus rider experience and encourage the use of mass transit. For up-to-date project information, please visit http://bigbluebus.com/bsip.  To receive project updates by email, please subscribe by visiting http://www.bit.ly/BSIPemailsubscribe.        About the Big Blue Bus The Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of almost 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, the Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Fri, 29 Aug 2014 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Fall-Service-Changes-begin-August-24,-2014.aspxBig Blue Bus Fall Service Changes begin August 24, 2014 -   Route 3 is being restructured into two routes and 15 other routes are changing.  SANTA MONICA, CA – It’s that time again: students start classes, commuters head back to the office after summer vacations and Big Blue Bus (BBB) adjusts its schedules and routes for these annual changes in ridership demand. This year, the fall service change will begin Sunday, August 24.  BBB is making many changes, including a major service modification on Route 3 and other smaller changes on 15 different routes that include new schedules on Route 1 and increased service on Rapid 3 (serving Lincoln Blvd.) and Rapid 7 (serving Pico Blvd.) to accommodate heavy demand when Santa Monica College students return to class. BBB’s Route 3, currently traveling all the way from the Metro Green Line Aviation Station to UCLA, through downtown Santa Monica, will be split into two separate routes. The southern portion, from the Green Line Station to Downtown Santa Monica will remain “Route 3” and the portion from Santa Monica to UCLA is named “Route 3M” to designate the service along Montana Ave. “Changes to Route 3 stem from significant on-time challenges with this long route that travels through five major traffic bottlenecks. The 95-minute service time is twice the average of BBB’s other routes,” says Edward F. King, Director of Transit Services. “This simply is not acceptable from a customer service and service quality standpoint,” continued Mr. King. “By splitting the routes into two separate services, BBB is able to make operational changes to increase driver recovery time and reliefs that will significantly improve the service performance for customers. However, there are always trade-offs. Eighty percent of customers will only experience positive changes, but customers currently traveling through downtown Santa Monica will have to connect to a second bus and cash paying customers will have to pay a second fare.” Big Blue Bus is encouraging these customers to buy pre-paid day-passes or monthly passes which will work out to cost less than the $1 per ride fare. There are many additional changes and the following routes have schedule and stop adjustments: Route 1, Rapid 3, Route 4, Route 5, return of Route 6 after Summer Break, Route 7, Rapid 7, Route 8, Route 9, Rapid 10, Route 12, Route 14, Rapid 20, and Route 41. Please see “Fall Service Change” information and details online at www.BigBlueBus.com/ServiceChanges.    In addition to service changes happening now, Santa Monica residents and all Big Blue Bus customers are encouraged to learn about BBB’s proposed Expo Service plan for redesigned transit service integration with the Expo light rail coming to Santa Monica in early 2016. Customers can review the plan and give feedback at: http://expo.bigbluebus.com/survey/.   About the Big Blue Bus The Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of over 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, the Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Thu, 14 Aug 2014 08:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Announces-Plans-to-Modify-New-Bus-Stop-Design.aspxBig Blue Bus Announces Plans to Modify New Bus Stop Design - SANTA MONICA, CA – The City of Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus (BBB), in response to customer feedback, announced plans to modify elements of its new Bus Stop Improvement Project (BSIP) design improving seating capacity and functionality.    Background In 2009, Big Blue Bus engaged an architectural design firm to work with BBB, city staff, and stakeholders to come up with a Santa Monica-inspired design that would also incorporate real-time information, solar lighting, updated maps and other desired amenities for riders. The final design, called "The Blue Spots," is clean and unobtrusive, and was designed to enhance the city's coastal look and feel. The new bus stop structures utilize a modular system flexible enough to adapt to various sized locations and rider volumes and the three stop configurations are designed to accommodate different passenger ridership volumes for designated “low”, “medium” and “high volume” stops. The design is the result of extensive outreach to a great number of stakeholders, including; riders, City Council officials, business owners with storefronts behind bus stops, business improvement districts, neighborhood associations, and the Santa Monica Convention & Visitors Bureau. All 302 bus stops throughout Santa Monica will be updated. New features at each stop will include: A route map of lines stopping at that location. An ID number that allows for real time bus arrivals via cell phone. A canopy providing shade during peak travel times. Seating (space permitting). Trash and recycling containers. Medium and high volume stops will also receive: Signs that broadcast real time bus arrival information at 35 boarding locations. Additional seating and canopies. Select areas will receive solar LED lighting that illuminates the structure and waiting area.      Rendering Installation, Design Modification and Next StepsBBB planned the construction to take place six to twelve stops at a time over a two-year period. Construction of the first six stops began Monday, March 31. Almost 40 of the low volume stops have been completed to date and BBB has heard customer and constituent concerns about seating capacity, shade, rider and driver line of site visibility, and functionality of the seats for elderly riders and riders with physical challenges. BBB researched and vetted these concerns and true to the iterative community engagement process, BBB is modifying the design of the new bus stops to address these concerns.  “We have received numerous customer requests for additional seating, shade, and comfort and are working with the City’s architect, Public Works Department and project contractors to accommodate these requests as possible,” says Ed King, Director of Transit for the Big Blue Bus. “While BBB and the City underwent an extensive public engagement process during the design phase for the Bus Stop Improvement Project, making adjustments once the design is built and installed based on customer experience is the mark of a dynamic public engagement effort." Bus stop design modifications will include installing additional seating, and additional or expanded canopies at low volume stops on a space permitting basis, seating features allowing greater ease of use for riders requiring support to lift themselves up from a seated position, and when necessary, repositioning the seating such that the sightline for riders and drivers alike is not obstructed. Where feasible, BBB will convert “low volume” stops currently designed to host two seats and a single canopy to “medium volume” stops, adding seating as well as canopies. In addition, BBB is investigating modifying the existing seat design to improve the seating comfort and support, potentially through wider seats and higher backs. Proposed modifications will go into effect over the next few months. BBB will also construct a few “high-volume” stops over the next several weeks so that customers can see the full mix of stop configurations sooner than previously scheduled. “We believe when customers see the full scope of the project installed, there will be a greater understanding of seat and canopy configurations at each stop based on the volume of ridership,” continued Ed King. “We appreciate the customer feedback as it has contributed to improving the design.” To receive regular updates about the project, please subscribe to the Big Blue Bus’s dedicated Bus Stop Improvement Project email list here.   About the Big Blue Bus The Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of over 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a 51-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, the Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Wed, 09 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Fall-Service-Changes-Start-August-25,-2013.aspxBig Blue Bus Fall Service Changes Start August 25, 2013 - Resources being shifted based on rider demand and construction at local colleges   SANTA MONICA, CA – It’s that time again: students head back to school, drivers head to the office instead of the beach, Big Blue Bus (BBB) adjusts its schedules and routes to serve the most customers possible. This year’s fall service change will begin Sunday, August 25. In response to passenger requests and crowded buses, BBB is increasing service on Route 3 and Rapid 3 (serving Lincoln Blvd.) and Route 7 and Rapid 7 (serving Pico Blvd.). Rapid 3 will offer new midday service to accommodate heavy demand from increases in development along the Playa Vista/Marina del Rey portion of Lincoln Blvd. and in Santa Monica tourism.   To make this possible, a variety of BBB trips with low ridership will be cancelled or run less frequently. While BBB has no funds available to add new service, small reductions are spread across multiple existing services in order to fund additional service on routes due to overcrowding or poor schedule reliability, with the intention of these reductions being almost invisible to most passengers. The result, beginning on Sunday, August 25, will be adjustments to service on Route 1, 2, 3, and 5 with the discontinuation of unproductive morning trips and some Rapid 12 afternoon trips. Due to lower ridership on midday Route 8 service, frequency will be reduced to every 20 minutes from 9:30 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., and Route 6 service will be reduced by two afternoon trips during the school year and will only operate during Santa Monica College’s fall and spring semesters.   Edward F. King, Director of Transit Services explains, “At Big Blue Bus, we continually review routes and schedules based on travel patterns, changes in ridership, new markets and on-time performance challenges due to road conditions to determine how we can best support the majority of our customers while optimizing efficiencies. These precision changes will be accomplished by employing the same zero-sum service improvement model BBB has been applying for the last two years.”   Passengers to UCLA and Santa Monica College’s Academy of Entertainment and Technology should also note changes to BBB services due to construction at both campuses. UCLA’s Ackerman Terminal is closed for construction, so BBB will be using a new transit hub located on UCLA’s north campus at Charles E. Young Drive across from Parking Structure 2 on weeknights and weekends. BBB will still use Hilgard Terminal on weekdays from 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.   For SMC riders, BBB’s Sunset Ride will be on long-term detour due to construction at Santa Monica College’s (SMC) Academy of Entertainment and Technology. Buses will continue to serve the current route between SMC’s Bundy and Main campuses, but the Sunset Ride will no longer provide service north of Pico Blvd. BBB is recommending that this detour be approved as a permanent route change at a community meeting to be held this Wednesday, August 21 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Santa Monica’s Main Library on the second floor in the multi-purpose meeting room.   BBB has posted details about the community meeting and the “Fall Service Change” on www.BigBlueBus.com.   About the Big Blue Bus The Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of over 200 vehicles transporting more than 61,000 passengers daily across a nearly 52-square mile service area and has been serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928.Tue, 20 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/Big-Blue-Bus-Launches-%E2%80%98Travel-like-a-Local%E2%80%99-Summer-Campaign.aspxBig Blue Bus Launches ‘Travel like a Local’ Summer Campaign - Encouraging Customers to Experience Santa Monica and Los Angeles Through a New Lens   SANTA MONICA, CA – As the summer season swings into full gear, millions of visitors flock to the beach and numerous attractions, and bring along a significant increase in vehicles and traffic congestion. The American Public Transportation Association (ATPA) reports that 2012 experienced a seven percent increase in Americans planning “staycations.” To help minimize traffic challenges and parking woes this summer, the Big Blue Bus invites tourists and residents alike to Ride Blue! Suja Lowenthal, Transit Government and Community Relations Manager, explains, “The Travel like a Local campaign is designed to encourage everyone to get out of their cars and jump into a Big Blue Bus to experience both Santa Monica and Los Angeles through a different lens.”    This newly launched campaign offers insider tips on using Big Blue Bus and other modes of public transportation in the area for recreational activities this summer. Taking the Big Blue Bus is affordable and provides easy access to major landmarks and attractions. You can easily plan a day trip without the hassle of driving or finding parking: grab lunch on Historic Main Street, snap photos along the iconic Santa Monica Pier, then head into Downtown Los Angeles to visit the new Grand Park or Walt Disney Concert Hall and return to Santa Monica for dinner and an evening stroll along the Promenade.   Riders can share videos or photos of their Big Blue Bus travels on Instagram using the hashtags #BBBlocal or #RideBlueGoGreen. Big Blue Bus released their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to help both new and regular riders travel like locals by posting timely service alerts, tips on where to go for local fun and deals, and facts and photos to keep riders entertained.   ATPA projects that 73 percent of those planning to visit a city this summer will take public transportation so they won’t have to worry about finding parking. As Lowenthal puts it, “Riding Blue helps you keep cool and be cool at the same time!”    For more information, visit www.bigbluebus.com. Follow Big Blue Bus on Facebook www.facebook.com/SMBigBlueBus, Twitter www.twitter.com/SMBigBlueBus and Instagram @BigBlueBus. About the Big Blue Bus The Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of over 200 vehicles transporting more than 70,000 passengers daily across a nearly 52-square mile service area. Nationally recognized for its long-standing commitment to a cleaner environment, the entire fleet operates on alternative fuels, including liquefied and compressed natural gas (LNG/CNG), which helps to cut emissions by over 80 percent. Serving Santa Monica and the Los Angeles area since 1928, the Big Blue Bus has won numerous awards for its customer service, safety and efficiency.Wed, 17 Jul 2013 00:00:00 -0700https://www.bigbluebus.com/Newsroom/Press/BBB-Line-1,-2,-4,-7,-8,-9,-and-10-riders-%E2%80%93-Santa-Monica-5000-Detours-This-Sunday.aspxBBB Line 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, and 10 riders – Santa Monica 5000 Detours This Sunday - BBB Line 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, and 10 riders – Santa Monica 5000 Detours This Sunday   IMMEDIATE RELEASEDATE: October 4, 2012CONTACT:Big Blue Bus Customer Service: 310-451-5444 (Fridays and Saturdays)Suja Lowenthal, Transit Community Relations310-458-1975 x6920suja.lowenthal@smgov.net   Due to the Santa Monica 5000 on Sunday, October 7, 2012 detours and service time impacts are expected from 6:00 a.m. until approximately 1:30 p.m. on Lines 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, and 10.   Big Blue Bus supervisors are currently posting temporary detour signs to help direct you. Supervisors will also be on the streets during the race to monitor detours and dispatch extra buses as needed to minimize the event's impact on bus service. For assistance planning your trip around these detours, call Customer Service at (310) 451-5444 on Saturday, from noon to 6 pm.       LINE 1 -                Line 1 Outbound:     Regular route to Main and Rose   R onto Rose L onto 3rd  R onto Hill L onto 4th   R onto Santa Monica, From here, Line 1 resumes regular route.  Line 1 Inbound:                    Regular route to Broadway/4th   L onto 4th R onto Hill L onto 3rd R onto Rose L onto Main From here, Line 1 resumes regular route    LINE 2 -                Line 2 Outbound:                      Leaving yard, L onto Colorado and R onto 4th   Onto 4th  From here, Line 2 resumes regular route.   Line 2 Inbound:             Regular route to 4th and Colorado L onto Colorado and layover                                                                                                                                                                                         LINE 4-   Line 4 Outbound:          Leave yard; L onto Colorado and R onto 4th                                          R onto Montana L onto 14th R onto San Vicente From here, Line 4 resumes regular route.     Line 4 Inbound: Georgina to 7th    L onto 7th R onto Montana L onto 4th L onto Colorado and layover   LINE 7 -              Line 7 Outbound: Broadway to 4th    L onto 4th  L onto Pico From here, Line 7 resumes regular route.   Line 7 Inbound: Pico to 4th  R onto 4th  R onto Santa Monica From here, Line 7 resumes regular route.                                                                                                                    LINE 8-   Line 8 Outbound: Broadway and 6th   L onto 4th  L onto Ocean Park From here, Line 8 resumes regular route.     Line 8 Inbound: From Ackerman to Ocean Park and 4th  R onto 4th  R onto Santa Monica R onto 6th  R onto Broadway and layover       LINE 9 -              Line 9 Outbound: Leaving the yard  L onto Colorado R onto 4th   Regular route to 6th and Montana R onto Montana L onto 14th  R onto San Vicente L onto 26th/Allen Ford L onto Sunset From here, Line 9 resumes regular route.     Line 9 Inbound: Sunset (past Chautauqua) to Allen Ford R onto Allen Ford / 26th  R onto San Vicente L onto 14th  R onto Montana L onto 4th  L onto Colorado R onto 6th and layover                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              LINE 10 -   Line 10 Outbound: Leaving the yard       L onto Colorado R onto 4th  R onto Santa Monica From here, Line 10 resumes regular route.                                                                                                                                                                                                      Line 10 Inbound: 6th to Broadway (passengers get off bus) Continue onto 6th and layoverThu, 04 Oct 2012 06:00:00 -0700