West Covina Extends Free Shuttle Rides

The free ride continues--at least on the city’s new Freeway Corridor Shuttle for the next six months.

The shuttle, which links the Fashion Plaza and Eastland Center along the San Bernardino Freeway, began operation April 7. With the free introductory period running out and initial ridership low, the City Council voted this week to extend the free rides until October in hopes of increasing ridership. The city will also mount a marketing plan and determine what the eventual fare will be. It is expected to be around 25 cents.

The shuttle is funded by the city’s share of Proposition A transportation funds. No figures were immediately available on how much the extension of free service will cost the city.

Gus Salazar, the city’s human services director, said the shuttle has a daily average of 38 riders. Salazar’s report to the council said routes, stops and schedules will continue to be adjusted during the extension period.

Councilman Bradley McFadden, a self-described fiscal conservative, called the six-month extension too generous and suggested a one- or two-month period, with the fare to be phased in afterward. He cast the sole vote against the extension.