News Summary
Southeastern San Diego has introduced Southeastern Connect, a new electric, on-demand microtransit service aimed to provide transportation for local residents. The service, which operates for free until November 2025, is designed to enhance accessibility to essential areas while addressing sustainability concerns. Residents can use the Via San Diego app or call to request rides during operating hours. Supported by various funding sources, this initiative marks a pivotal moment in improving public transportation options in the region.
Southeastern San Diego has officially welcomed a new electric, on-demand microtransit service known as Southeastern Connect. The initiative, which launched on Tuesday at Market Creek Plaza, aims to provide convenient transportation options to residents in neighborhoods such as Chollas View, Emerald Hills, and Mount Hope. The service allows users to request rides through the Via San Diego app or by calling 619-413-9986, with operating hours set from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays.
In an effort to make this service accessible, Southeastern Connect is currently offering free rides through November 2025. After this period, the pricing will be determined based on ridership data collected during the trial months. The program is designed as a four-year pilot initiative backed by a total funding of $3.8 million from various sources. This includes $1.5 million from the Federal Highway Administration, $1.8 million from California’s state grant program for low-emission transit initiatives, and $500,000 from the City of San Diego.
Southeastern Connect vehicles, which can carry up to four passengers, feature wheelchair-accessible options, ensuring inclusivity for all users. The primary goal of this transit service is to enhance access to essential locations such as supermarkets, hospitals, and job centers, while also contributing to a reduction in air pollution.
The initiative has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG) and the Urban Collaborative Project. Local government participation aims to create a stronger transit landscape within the region, particularly through the collaboration of multiple levels of government.
According to City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera, the launch of Southeastern Connect is a significant step toward addressing the rising cost of living while promoting a sustainable future for the area. This launch comes amidst the challenges faced by previous micro-transit services in more tourist-oriented locations such as Downtown San Diego, which struggled with sustainability over time.
Similar micro-transit models have been deployed successfully in other regions, such as Mid-City GO, which has expanded options for low-income communities. This trend indicates a growing recognition of the importance of reliable transportation services in enhancing community connectivity and overall public health.
In addition to local government support, prominent figures like Congressman Juan Vargas have also underscored the initiative’s value, asserting that it will enhance connectivity within communities. The focus on electric vehicles aligns with broader goals to foster environmentally friendly transportation solutions across urban landscapes.
The introduction of Southeastern Connect marks a significant milestone in the efforts to improve transit options and promote economic mobility within Southeastern San Diego. As the initial months unfold, ridership data will be closely monitored to inform future fare structures and service enhancements, ensuring that the needs of residents are met comprehensively.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 San Diego: Southeastern Connect Microtransit Service
- San Diego Union-Tribune: New Micro-Transit Shuttle Launch
- NBC San Diego: SANDAG Launches Zero-Emission Service
- CBS 8: New Electric Microtransit Service
- Times of San Diego: Free Microtransit Service Launch
- Wikipedia: Microtransit
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
