Transit Doesn't Stand Still in the Bay Area

August
August 17, 2010 | Volume 18, Number 8

Transit Doesn't Stand Still in the Bay Area

By Hacienda Network Staff Writer

Even a quick look at the transit networks in the Bay Area will tell you that this is not your parents' public transportation. Today's next-generation vehicles - primarily, buses and trains - are powered by new fuel-efficient engines, like diesel-electric hybrids, which produce reduced CO2 emissions. They are equipped with amenities such as tables, Wi-Fi, and power outlets so commuters can get a head start on their work day. Many feature wheelchair lifts, seat belts that accommodate child seats, and bike racks to make commuting more accessible to a wider audience.

Hacienda's strategic location at the gateway to the Bay Area makes it a natural transportation hub, with a large number of transit providers. WHEELS buses, which all Hacienda employees and residents can ride for free with a Hacienda EcoPass, run throughout Hacienda, Pleasanton, and the Tri-Valley (see www.hacienda.org/services/services_commute_pass.html). Buses also arrive here from throughout the Bay Area and the San Joaquin Valley. Train service is provided by the Altamont Commuter Express (ACE) and the Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART), whose new West Dublin/Pleasanton station is slated to open next year.

Thanks to the Internet, it has never been easier to avail oneself of these public transit options. Agency web sites offer online trip planners, many based on 511.org, showing how to get to your chosen destination. Real-time arrival information can be accessed from all kinds of mobile devices, and live web cams display up-to-date views of current traffic conditions.

With more than 20,000 people living and working in Hacienda, it is also likely that you'll be able to find carpool or vanpool opportunities with one of your neighbors. The increasing number of high-occupancy vehicle lanes on Bay Area freeways means that you'll be able to save travel time, too. There are even a number of convenient bicycle routes coming into the park from a variety of different directions. This special map and directory of Tri-Valley services will help you keep track of all the options. A downloadable version of the map is available at www.hacienda.org/resources/tvtransportguide.html.

Local Transit Agencies

Transit agencies providing commute services within the Tri-Valley:

Neighboring or Connecting Transit Agencies

Transit agencies providing commute services connecting to Tri-Valley service:

Paratransit Agencies

Agencies providing commute services to individuals with a disability who are ADA certified to use paratransit:

Transportation Support Agencies

Agencies providing information and referral service on transit alternatives, commuter ridesharing, and employer programs:

Additional Resources

Organizations providing further alternative commute support:

  • East Bay Regional Park District Parks and trails information
    (510) 562-PARK (7275), (510) 633-0460 (TDD)
    www.ebparks.org
  • Electric Vehicle Charger Station
    Many former charger stations are in transition or no longer operational. For the most up-to-date information, visit www.evchargernews.com
  • Compressed Natural Gas Refueling Station
    Pinnacle CNG, 4500 Norris Canyon (UPS Package Distribution Center), San Ramon
    www.pinnaclecng.com/fueling%20locations/sanramon.htm

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