Sign in Subscribe
2 min read Exclusive

California city goes completely electric with its public transit

Santa Maria’s fully electric public transit system, backed by modern infrastructure upgrades and smart technology, sets a new standard for sustainable urban mobility.
California city goes completely electric with its public transit
Above: A rendering of Santa Maria's new electric-equipped transit station. (Courtesy of Omni Designs)
Subscribe to The Level

By Katie Parsons | Editor, The Level

A version of this story first appeared in The Level newsletter. To get it in your inbox weekly, sign up for free, here.

With a population of 110,000, Santa Maria, Calif. rivals larger neighbors when it comes to progressive technology and sustainability.  Case in point: the city has switched its entire public transportation fleet from gas-powered vehicles to electric-powered ones. 

In 2022, Santa Maria was awarded $6.6 million from the Federal Transit Administration to purchase electric buses. The grant was in response to the city’s aim to go completely electric with its public transportation by the end of 2024—a goal which was met. The city’s microtransit e-fleet now relies on zero-emission minibuses that are 20 feet long and have the ability to maneuver narrow city streets with ease. 

But the e-fleet required an upgrade in system infrastructure to modernize both the ride and scheduling experience for riders. This included the implementation of a mobile app and updates to the city’s transit center. 

Enter Omni Design Group of San Luis Obispo, Calif.— an international design company selected for its history of sustainable, sleek design in municipal structures. 

“The new transit center’s design emphasizes community involvement and incorporates spaces for civic events, transforming it into a multifunctional public space that fosters community engagement and a sense of connection,” says Juan Pablo Cal y Mayor, CEO of Omni Design, Inc. 

Phase I, now complete, focused on enhancing the Transit Center’s parking and circulation. Updates included expanded parking, autonomous bus parking technology and the integration of solar panels with battery storage, setting a foundation for sustainability.

Phase II is now underway and slated for completion this year. It centers on revamping the existing Transit Center building. Improvements include enclosing the open-air waiting area, upgrading the structure and adding offices for city departments. Additionally, the new space will accommodate rotating civic events.

Phase III will focus on-site improvements, including integrating more smart technology to enhance the overall public transit-user experience

“This project represents a significant investment in the quality and longevity of our city and region's public transit system," says Gamaliel Anguiano, Santa Maria's city planner. "We want an attractive, sustainable facility that will welcome riders today and in the next 50 years." 

Published by:

You might also like...

Feb
25
'The need for industrial space has been strong'

'The need for industrial space has been strong'

Industrial real estate demand remains strong, but limited supply and rising costs continue to challenge developers, investors, and tenants alike.
1 min read
Feb
18
'It’s a business banker’s job to be proactive'

'It’s a business banker’s job to be proactive'

A strong relationship with a business banker can help construction companies navigate cash flow challenges, secure financing, and protect against fraud—before issues arise.
2 min read
Feb
11
Fleet Management: 'Invest in training... It pays for itself'

Fleet Management: 'Invest in training... It pays for itself'

Effective fleet management in construction requires the right equipment, proper training, and proactive maintenance—saving money, reducing risks, and maximizing ROI.
2 min read
Dec
18
Tilt-up wine facility uses robotic stacking technology

Tilt-up wine facility uses robotic stacking technology

Justin Vineyards & Winery’s new 125,000-square-foot facility in Paso Robles, built by Precision Construction Services, combines state-of-the-art wine storage and sustainable design.
1 min read