Your Guide to SunLine Refueled
SunLine Refueled Begins Sunday, January 3rd at a Level 3 Service
You’ve been hearing about SunLine Refueled, and it’s almost here! While it was initially scheduled for three of the four SunLine Refueled pillars to launch on January 3, 2021 – due to continued COVID-19 concerns and the primary goal of keeping passengers and operators safe – we will be implementing the much-awaited SunLine Refueled initiative at Level 3 services.
What Does This Mean to Me as a Rider?
Riders can still expect the launch to begin on January 3, 2021. SunLine’s five-level alert system was activated in March of 2020 to help communicate changes to services as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. As you may be accustomed to following our “levels of service” previously, Level 3 remains a modified service. Level 3 status means that bus routes are operating under the weekend schedule. This means Route 5 will not be running, as it is a weekday service, and other routes will have longer intervals. SunLine’s January 2021 Rider’s Guide conveniently lays out the weekend schedule for further explanation. Commuter Link 10 will not be in operation during Level 3, however SunRide will begin as a new service available in four designated corridors within the Coachella Valley. SunRide will be available Monday-Friday. Click here to learn more about those zones and how SunRide works.
SunLine Refueled includes a number of exciting new transit options for its riders:
- The Consolidated Fixed Route Network
- SunRide
- 10 Commuter Link (resuming during level 1 service)
- Route 1X (Coming May 2021)
Here are some tools and quick links to help you navigate SunLine Refueled.
WATCH THE VIDEO!
This animated tour of SunLine Refueled shows how to take advantage of the new services and all they have to offer:
USEFUL TOOLS:
Connect directly to SunLine's apps to plan your trip, purchase your fare and book SunRide if you're located in one of its 4 pilot zones:
myStop Mobile – This app puts real-time bus information and trip planning into your hands. The myStop® Mobile app that shows the number of riders on any given bus in real-time. To access the Refueled routes and information you will need to re-select "SunLine Transit Agency" in the app settings.
TransLoc – For those located in SunRide zones, this app will help you schedule a ride.
Token Transit – Download this app to pay your fare electronically using your debit or credit card.
SunLine Rider's Guide – Service is currently operating at Level 3.
THE CONSOLIDATED FIXED ROUTE NETWORK:
All routes will be introduced on January 3, 2021 except for Route 5. Route 5 is a weekday only service that does not operate during Level 3 service.
Click here for route maps that show the consolidated network and its new numbering system
SUNRIDE:
Using the Transloc app, call a SunRide vehicle to pick you up at a destination within the designated zones and/or bus stops.
Review the 4 zone maps and determine if SunRide is a service that works for you
10 COMMUTER LINK:
SunLine looked at opportunities for more regional connections for Coachella Valley residents and created a new commuter link route. Due to COVID-19 this service has been suspended until further notice.
ROUTE 1X:
The Route 1X will operate along Highway 111 between Palm Springs and Indio – reducing travel times for customers riding long distances. This service was slated for May 2021 and that timeline has not been adjusted to date.
SunLine Refueled FAQs:
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding SunLine Refueled.
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Transit Agencies are constantly finetuning their schedules and services. However, due to new technologies and to include proper outreach, it is necessary to take a "big picture" look as an Agency. This allows us to create bigger and more meaningful changes and ensures we aren't leaving certain services behind.
Network consolidation is a nationwide trend of reducing the number of bus routes to increase efficiency, coverage, and convenience. That means more buses where you need them and when you need them.
SunRide is a microtransit service that greatly increases your access to our bus routes and your destinations. By using the app TransLoc in one of our first four service areas, you schedule a vehicle to pick you up and take you to your local bus stop or a destination in the service area along your nearby bus route.
Not at all. In fact, two of the five stops are directly at college campuses. The Commuter Link is named to reflect its hours of operation (Weekdays during AM and PM peak travel). The commuter link is a great resource for anyone wishing to go to any destination west of the Coachella Valley.
SunLine recognizes the importance of cleanliness during these times and its relationship to riders feeling safe. We have implemented enhanced cleaning protocols for all of our vehicles, bus stops and facilities. Our full Ride with Confidence – Delivering Clean Transportation Inside and Out page provides details.
To see all our FAQs, click here. Refueled FAQ Sheet.pdf