The Heritage Valley’s new local transit system is kicking off its new service on March 2 by offering free rides all day.

All fixed-route rides on the locally based Valley Express bus service will be free on Monday, March 2. The new fixed-route service and supporting Dial-A-Ride service comprise the Heritage Valley’s own local transit program, replacing the long-time VISTA Dial-A-Ride service sponsored by VCTC.

The service name was selected from the more than 30 entries submitted as part of a Name the Bus contest open to residents of Fillmore, Piru, and Santa Paula. The winning entry was submitted by Sara M., a student at Santa Paula High School.

The new service will operate from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays, and from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Two routes will operate in Santa Paula, one in Fillmore, and one in Piru. Buses will run every 30-40 minutes throughout the service day, with Dial-A-Ride service available during all service hours. VCTC will continue to provide its popular Highway 126 service connecting the Heritage Valley with nearby Ventura.

The Valley Express’ fixed-route Adult fare is $1.00 and the Youth/Senior/Disabled fare is just $0.50. For the Valley Express General Public Dial-a-ride service, Adult/Youth fare is $1.75 and the Senior/Disabled fare is $0.85. In addition, ADA paratransit fare is $2.00 and rides can be scheduled up to seven days in advance. Unlimited-ride day passes (valid on both Valley Express fixed-route and Dial-A-Ride) are $3.75. Free transfers are offered between VCTC Highway 126 and Valley Express fixed-route service. Transfers to Dial-A-Ride require a $0.50 fee. Monthly passes for Valley Express will be available for purchase following the start of the service at the Valley Express sales office (810 Railroad Ave in Santa Paula) and at Santa Paula and Fillmore city halls. For pre-order sales and bulk purchases, please contact VCTC’s administrative offices.

“The launch of the Valley Express represents a new era in mobility for residents of Fillmore, Piru, and Santa Paula,” noted Santa Paula Councilmember Ginger Gherardi. “The new fixed-route circulators will make it much easier to access school, work, and everyday activities throughout Fillmore, Piru, and Santa Paula.”

The cities of Fillmore and Santa Paula, along with the County of Ventura and VCTC, will be marking the launch of the new service with a public dedication at 11:30 a.m. on March 2, 2015. The event will take place opposite Santa Paula City Hall, located at 970 East Ventura Street. The event is open to the public and all Heritage Valley residents are invited to attend.

Valley Express operates fixed-route, eligibility-based paratransit, and general public Dial-A-Ride service throughout the Heritage Valley. Valley Express service is provided through a cooperative agreement between the cities of Fillmore and Santa Paula, the County of Ventura, and the Ventura County Transportation Commission. It is administered by the Ventura County Transportation Commission. For route and service information call (800) 438-1112 or visit www.valleyexpressbus.org.