In San Diego, a new mode of public transportation has hit the streets, aimed at transforming short neighborhood commutes into a convenient and eco-friendly experience. Launched yesterday, 'Southeastern Connect' is a four-year pilot initiative by SANDAG offering an on-demand microtransit service using fully electric vehicles. According to SANDAG, the service is aimed at southeastern communities of San Diego, including Chollas View, Emerald Hills, and Mount Hope.
The project, which stems from a collaboration between SANDAG and groups like the Urban Collaborative Project, targets key transportation issues such as accessibility to jobs and critical services. Sean Elo-Rivera, Vice Chair of the SANDAG Transportation Committee and San Diego City Councilmember, emphasized the program's intent, saying, per SANDAG, "This new connection will allow people to get around Southeastern communities in a more convenient way, providing low-cost access to essential places like supermarkets, hospitals, educational institutions, employment centers, and our transit network." Elo-Rivera also touched on the economic benefits, suggesting that “SE Connect is helping address the rising cost of living that makes it hard for so many San Diegans to make it."
Microtransit, a shared and more immediate transportation alternative to traditional systems, has been expanded across the region, from Oceanside to South County, through the concerted efforts of various agencies. This focus on zero-emission neighborhood transport gains support from the federal level, with Congressman Juan Vargas of California's 52nd District recognizing the significance of such services in keeping communities connected.
The initiative's $3.8 million funding comes from federal, state, and local resources, including SANDAG, the City of San Diego, and state agencies through the Clean Mobility Options program. Highlighting the grassroots nature of the project, Brian Pollard, CEO of the Urban Collaborative Project, acknowledged the indispensable role of community involvement and advocacy in bringing Southeastern Connect to fruition.
