MTD bus service celebrates 50 years

The Metropolitan Transit District celebrated its 50th birthday Wednesday with an open house and honors at its downtown headquarters.

The MTD first began rolling on the streets of Santa Barbara, Goleta and Carpinteria in 1969. It now has 112 buses.

The event featured a mini-museum. Those attending took a close up look at old ad campaignds buttons, signs, newspaper stories, shirts and fare boxes.

Local honors were presented to MTD General Manager Jerry Estrada from regional cities and legislators.

Pizza and cupcakes were served to guests strolling through the displays and touring the newest buses and electric shuttles.

In recent months the MTD has upgraded its services with 10-ride and monthly passes, new technology at the fare boxes and a $1 all day pass for the shuttle.

Information Officer Hillary Blackerby says the bus is an affordable alternative to the car and urged drivers to try the bus at least one day a week to reduce traffic on local roads.

For more on the MTD service, routes and fares click here.