SMART Launches On-Demand Shuttle Between Train Station, SoCo Airport

SANTA ROSA, CA — SMART Connect, a new micro-transit shuttle service that provides first- and last-mile service directly between the SMART Airport Station and the Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport, as well as the surrounding business corridor, is launching Monday, June 12.

SMART Connect makes it easy to combine the train with air travel at the Sonoma County Airport, while also creating opportunities for commuters to ride the train to work and other destinations in the surrounding area, Sonoma-Marin Area Rail Transit announced this week.

Passengers can book a trip on the SMART Connect on-demand shuttle using a mobile app. This on-demand model ensures minimal wait times and maximizes convenience for travelers, SMART said. The shuttle operates on a flexible route, adapting to the needs of passengers and dynamically adjusting to optimize efficiency—thus allowing for personalized transportation options, according to SMART.

How To Ride The SMART Connect Shuttle

Starting June 12, SMART Connect will operate seven days a week from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. The one-way fare is $1.50 for adults and 75 cents for youth, seniors and people with disabilities. June 1-Aug. 31, youth K-12 ride free on the train and shuttle.

Passengers can book a trip both in advance and on-demand using the Ride Pingo™ app. The shuttle will pick up passengers at the SMART Airport Station or any address within the approximately 1.5-mile service zone. Airport passengers can catch the shuttle at the bus stop just south of the terminal.

The shuttle’s service zone centers around the Sonoma County Airport area and includes destinations such as American Ag Credit, Sonoma County Office of Education, Medtronic, Redwood Empire Food Bank, and the Sonoma County Water Agency.

Passengers who do not have a smartphone can book a trip on SMART Connect by calling 800-727-0279, 24 hours, seven days a week. A customer service agent will provide the shuttle's estimated arrival time and confirm the passenger's pick-up and drop-off locations.

The SMART Connect shuttle is an all-electric, wheelchair-accessible vehicle, equipped with comfortable seating, luggage space and modern amenities. The airport area business corridor is home to many business and corporate centers. The shuttle offers flexibility and convenience for commuters who want to ride public transit to get to work.

Introducing a micro-transit connection to the Sonoma County Airport heralds a significant step toward greener and more sustainable travel, SMART said. The micro-transit shuttle will also have a positive impact on traffic congestion and parking demand at the Sonoma County Airport.

For additional information about the new SMART Connect shuttle, call SMART Customer Service at 707-794-3330 (TTY 711).