Irvine City Council proposes expansion of popular Irvine Connect transit service

Irvine's city council has taken significant steps to enhance public transportation services, with plans to expand the popular Irvine Connect transit system. During the recent council meeting on April 22, 2025, officials reported that the pilot program has seen over 141,000 boardings in its first year, with daily ridership doubling since its launch. Notably, April 10 marked the busiest day yet, with 740 boardings recorded.

The Irvine Connect system, currently the third busiest transit route in the city, serves key locations including the Irvine Train Station, Spectrum Center, local hospitals, and several schools. In response to the growing demand, the council directed staff to explore an expansion of the service, which will be funded primarily through Proposition 116 transit funds.

The proposed expansion includes the addition of new routes: the Jamboree UCI route and the Baranca Link route. The existing Yale Barranca route will be enhanced by adding an additional bus, increasing service frequency to every 20 minutes. This expansion aims to improve access to neighborhoods and points of interest, including Northwood High School and various community centers.

The Jamboree UCI route will introduce two new buses operating on a 60-minute headway, connecting vital areas such as John Wayne Airport, UCI Health, and local shopping centers. Meanwhile, the Baranca Link route will add one bus, also on a 60-minute schedule, linking neighborhoods and key facilities.

To facilitate this expansion, the council plans to discontinue the I Shuttle service, which has seen a significant drop in ridership since the pandemic. The resources from the I Shuttle will be redirected to bolster the Irvine Connect system, ensuring that the city continues to meet the transportation needs of its residents effectively.

This strategic move not only reflects the city's commitment to improving public transit but also aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility for all Irvine residents. The council's forward-looking approach is expected to yield positive outcomes for the community as the expanded transit network rolls out in the coming months.