Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) is set to roll out its newest public transportation innovation, “The Wave,” offering flexible, on-demand microtransit service in parts of Goleta and Isla Vista. Funded via a pilot program, this curb-to-curb transportation service is designed to provide convenient, affordable, and accessible rides within a designated service zone.
MTD describes “microtransit” as a modern take on public transportation, blending the flexibility of rideshare apps with the reliability of a transit service. The Wave allows riders to book trips between any two points within its specified service zone. Passengers can schedule rides using the TransLoc app or by calling Santa Barbara MTD’s Customer Service Center at 805-963-3366.
Similar to rideshare platforms, riders input their pickup and drop-off locations, receive an estimated arrival time, and can track the van in real-time. The service is open to all members of the public, including children aged 14 and up who can ride independently if deemed ready by their parents. Passengers under 14 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
The initial service zone encompasses a defined area with boundaries at Patterson Avenue to the east, Cathedral Oaks Road to the north, Los Carneros Road to the west, and Highway 101 to the south. Housing developments and business parks south of the highway near Los Carneros are also included. Specific high-demand locations available for pickup/drop-off include:
- Goleta Amtrak Station
- Santa Barbara Airport
- UCSB Bus Loop
- Elings Hall stop
- Isla Vista Community Center
- El Colegio & Embarcadero del Mar outbound stop
Fares for The Wave are $3.00 per ride or $1.50 for seniors (65+) and people with disabilities. Riders can pay onboard using contactless payment methods (e.g., mobile wallets like Apple Pay or GPay, or contactless bank cards) or exact cash fare. Transfers to any regular MTD fixed-route bus within one hour are free, with drivers providing transfers upon request…