City of Lompoc encourages commuters to try out new bus fleet

The city of Lompoc launched a fleet of 7 new Colt buses nearly one year ago.

Even though the buses are brand new, the ridership has decreased by 14 percent.

The buses pay tribute to the local military members.

The city also opened a new transit transfer center in downtown Lompoc to serve as a hub for the buses.

Despite efforts to make public transit more accessible, spokeswoman Samantha Scroggin said fewer people are hopping on the bus.

“They’re comfortable, and they’re convenient to travel on. We really just want to get the word out to please come try our Colt buses. They’re affordable and they’re a comfortable ride,” Scroggin said.

Lompoc isn’t the only city seeing a decline.
T ransit ridership nation-wide has decreased over the past 9 years.
Scroggin said the trend could be due to lower gas prices and decreasing car costs.

In an effort to get people to try out the new Colt buses, the city offered free bus rides on Friday.