West Covina showcases success of Go West Covina micro transit pilot project

The City of West Covina is making strides in public transportation with the successful launch of the Go West Covina micro transit pilot program, which has been operational since November 2024. During the recent City Council meeting, city officials and representatives from VIA, the service provider, shared positive updates on the program's performance and community reception.

The Go West Covina initiative is a one-year pilot project funded by a grant from L.A. Metro, covering 60% of the $1.1 million project cost, with the city contributing the remaining 40%. This innovative service offers a flexible, on-demand transportation option that allows residents to book rides via a mobile app or by calling a center, providing a corner-to-corner service that enhances accessibility throughout the city.

Since its launch, the program has seen significant growth, with over 500 active riders and more than 7,000 completed rides reported by April 2025. The service operates from 7 AM to 7 PM, Monday through Friday, and is currently free for users. Notably, the program has achieved a 270% increase in ridership compared to the previous fixed-route bus services, which were discontinued earlier this year.

Feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, with an average ride rating of 4.8 out of 5. Residents appreciate the efficiency and cleanliness of the service, which has also been designed to connect users to other public transit options, including nearby Metrolink stations.

City officials are exploring further enhancements to the service, including the potential for "commingling" with existing dial-a-ride services to improve efficiency and reduce costs. This could lead to significant savings for the city while increasing ridership across both services.

As the pilot program approaches its conclusion in November 2025, city leaders are optimistic about its future and are considering options for extending the service based on its success and community demand. The Go West Covina program represents a significant step forward in providing residents with reliable and accessible transportation options, ultimately aiming to improve mobility and connectivity within the city.