Aging Without Access

Getting around isn't always easy, especially for seniors navigating daily life without a car. In Northwest Chula Vista, many older residents faced growing barriers to mobility, whether due to medical conditions or the rising cost of fuel. Everyday errands like grocery shopping or attending social events at the senior center often required help from family, taxis, or simply had to be skipped altogether. While Chula Vista continues to evolve—adding bike lanes, building new housing, and updating infrastructure—these changes also highlighted the need for mobility options that work for everyone. With 76% of projected population growth in Chula Vista expected to come from older adults, the city saw an opportunity to invest in a solution that could help seniors stay connected, independent, and engaged in their community. 

Equity on Wheels

In 2022, the City of Chula Vista partnered with Circuit to design a 100% electric, on-demand microtransit service exclusively for seniors aged 55 and older in District 2. Backed by a $1 million grant from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) through the Clean Mobility Options program—and matched by a $1 million contribution from the Community Congregational Development Corporation (CCDC)—the service was built with accessibility, equity, and sustainability in mind. 

The shuttle was designed to serve older adults living in census tracts designated as disadvantaged or low-income under California's SB 535 and AV 1550 criteria, ensuring that the most underserved neighborhoods received prioritized access.

Circuit officially launched the Chula Vista Community Shuttle in June 2022, providing curb-to-curb rides throughout northwest Chula Vista, from north of L Street to 30th Street and west of I-805 to the waterfront. Seniors can easily request a ride via the mobile app, by calling or texting, or through public kiosks installed in high-traffic community spaces.

The initial fleet included five Kia Nero EVs and one ADA-accessible Lightning eMotors van, supported by Level 2 charging infrastructure provided by Circuit. 

Originally free for seniors, the program expanded in 2024 to include younger riders for a nominal $2 fare, helping support long-term operations while prioritizing mobility for seniors in the community.

"I heard from seniors that were trying to get to the senior center that they had a very difficult time finding parking to attend garden club meetings or bingo nights. Many of them would have to arrange help from family or friends to bring them to events and some just couldn’t attend."
- Jill Galvez
Former Councilmember, District 2

The Outcome

The Chula Vista Community Shuttle has proven to be more than just a transportation service, but a vital connector for seniors and the broader community. Since launching, the program has provided rides to more than 68,000 passengers, with demand continuing to grow.

Seniors are using the shuttle to access essential destinations across the city, with top drop off locations being the E Street Transit Station, Walmart, local grocery stores and medical offices—places that once felt out of reach for senior members of the community without access to a car. Over 150 ADA rides are provided monthly, highlighting the importance of accessible vehicle options. Riders are consistently reporting high satisfaction with the service. Surveys show that 98% of riders say the service helps them save money, while 100% describe it as a valuable addition to the community.

The service also delivers measurable environmental and economic benefits, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 2.63 metric tons monthly. Additionally, the program created 15-20 full-time driving jobs, supporting local employment in the community it serves.

By offering free, electric, and ADA-accessible rides, the shuttle has helped reduce transportation barriers and reinforced Chula Vista's commitment to its senior community. 

Looking Ahead

This service has become more than just a transit program—it's a lifeline for seniors who rely on it to stay connected, independent, and active. As demand continues to grow, the city is now focused on the next phase: securing long-term funding to keep the program operational beyond its initial grant cycle and to explore potential expansion into other neighborhoods.

The program has shown that when mobility is made accessible, the entire community benefits. With a clear track record of success, Chula Vista is committed to preserving, and growing, a model that keeps its senior community moving forward.