Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Trusted Regional Transit in San Luis Obispo County
The San Luis Obispo Regional Transit Authority (RTA) has been dedicated to providing safe, reliable, and efficient transportation services since 1989. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors across San Luis Obispo County by connecting communities through innovative transit solutions. With a fleet that includes zero-emission electric buses, we operate fixed-route services, ADA-compliant paratransit, and seasonal trolleys, serving areas from Paso Robles to Santa Maria. Our team prioritizes sustainability, accessibility, and customer satisfaction, ensuring our services meet the evolving needs of the region.We collaborate with local agencies to optimize routes, reduce environmental impact, and maintain affordability through discounted fares and pass options. Committed to transparency and community engagement, RTA continuously seeks feedback to improve operations and meet state and federal standards. Our strategic partnerships and investment in cutting-edge technology reflect our dedication to being a leader in regional public transportation.
Services
Fixed Route Buses
Runabout Paratransit
Dial-A-Ride
Avila Beach Trolley
Morro Bay Trolley
Electric Bus Service
ADA Compliant Transit
Seasonal Trolley Service
Mobile Ticketing
Regional Connectivity
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We operate zero-emission electric buses to reduce environmental impact.
- Our services cover 7 days a week with ADA-compliant paratransit options.
- We offer discounted fares and mobile ticketing for passenger convenience.
- Our routes connect key cities including Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Maria.
- We prioritize sustainability through federal and state-funded green initiatives.
Services
Fixed Route Buses
Our fixed-route buses provide daily transportation across San Luis Obispo County, connecting major cities like Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Maria. Routes operate 7 days a week with ADA-compliant vehicles, ensuring accessibility for all passengers. The service supports regional mobility through scheduled stops and connections to local attractions, schools, and commercial hubs.
Runabout Paratransit
Runabout Paratransit offers door-to-door service for ADA-certified passengers within 3/4 miles of fixed routes. Trips must be scheduled in advance, with fares based on distance. This service ensures accessibility for individuals with disabilities, providing wheelchair-equipped vehicles and assistance during travel.
Electric Bus Service
RTAs electric buses reduce emissions and operating costs while maintaining reliability. Currently operating on Route 12, these GILLIG-manufactured buses have a 240-mile range and charge in 4 hours. This initiative aligns with Californias electrification mandates, saving $230,000 in fuel and maintenance over each buss lifespan.
Seasonal Trolley Service
Free summer trolleys connect Pismo Beach Outlets to Avila Beach and Shell Beach resorts. Operating Friday afternoons through Sundays, these trolleys enhance tourism access. The Morro Bay Trolley runs weekends with a $1 fare, linking local attractions to regional transit routes.
Mobile Ticketing
Purchase bus passes via the Token Transit app, allowing passengers to display digital tickets on smartphones. This contactless system simplifies fare payment and reduces physical interactions. Available for all fixed-route services, it supports real-time pass management and instant validation by drivers.
Questions
What areas does RTA serve?
RTA serves San Luis Obispo County, including Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Morro Bay, Grover Beach, and Arroyo Grande, with select service extending into Santa Barbara County.
How do I purchase a bus pass?
Buy passes at RTA’s main office, online via Token Transit app, or at designated retail outlets. Mobile passes can be displayed directly to drivers using smartphones.
Are there discounted fares available?
Yes. Discounted fares apply for seniors, students, and disabled passengers on fixed-route and paratransit services. Details are available on our website or by calling (805) 541-2228.
Does RTA offer ADA-compliant transportation?
Yes. Runabout Paratransit provides ADA-certified door-to-door service for eligible passengers within 3/4 miles of fixed routes. Reservations require advance scheduling.
How can I track my bus in real time?
Use RTA’s Transit Tracker tool on our website or app to monitor bus locations, receive alerts, and plan trips with real-time schedule updates for all routes.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Cameron Mac Lauchlin
Jan 01, 2022
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At 9:20 this evening January 6th 1920 to 2022I was ten steps away from the bus stop and the bus just Merrily On by putting my Walker and carrying a guitar I couldn't
Kael Lawrence
Sep 13, 2019
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Driver today failed to switch his sign from North to South, talked to him about it and he was extremely rude about it and offered no apology or help. Now about 12 of us are on a trip for an extra hour to Morro Bay.
Preston Pdog Johnson
Aug 24, 2019
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The driver this morning was very rude. There was an older lady behind me( wich I wasnt aware of) the driver stopped me from boarding, waved the lady aside(wich I'm fine with) but then told the lady how rude I was right in front of me! Truly unprofessional, and not even her place to say anything about.
Dustin Eckert
Oct 11, 2017
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I just tried to board 9s at the north county transportation center at 6:10 on Wednesday, July 12th. I walked up and asked if he was boarding. I got no response, so I sat down to wait until he was boarding, at 6:10 exactly he closed the doors and looped around. I ran across to catch him at the bench on the way out. He didn't open the doors to even check if anyone needed to ride 9s and took off. I don't know what I did wrong, but now I have to wait another hour to catch the next arrival to get home, then ride that bus for an hour or more to get there. I don't know who the driver was, but he just
