SBCTA is excited to be bringing back one of the more influential business to business events in the region with the return of the SBCTA Busines2Business Expo. After a two-year layoff as a result of the impacts associated with the global pandemic, this gathering of some of the best and brightest in transportation from throughout the region is ready to recreate the energy enjoyed in years past.

At the September 7th meeting, the SBCTA Board of Directors took initial steps to move forward with the Tunnel to Ontario International Airport (ONT) project. The Board approved a request to release two Request for Qualifications (RFQ), one for a Design Build (DB) team and a second for a Technology Provider.

There is a new car-free way to travel to the Ontario Airport. Residents from throughout the region can now take Metrolink right to Cucamonga Station where they will be met by ONT Connect, a direct shuttle operated by Omnitrans and powered by the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority.

ONT Connect shuttles will meet Metrolink trains or Omnitrans buses for a quick, no-wait connection to Ontario Airport Terminals Two and Four and will collect riders from the airport for the return trip to Cucamonga Station. The ride is free for anyone transferring from or to Metrolink or Omnitrans.

SBCTA recently had the distinction of receiving two awards, for the I-10 Express Lanes Project, from the California Association of Public Information Officials (CAPIO). CAPIO is the leading statewide organization dedicated to advancing public sector communicators across all levels of government. Their EPIC awards program recognizes the most creative and effective efforts in the areas of communication and marketing campaigns, newsletter production, photography, special events, writing, website development, and video production.

Metrolink passengers with a California Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card are eligible for a 50 percent discount on all Metrolink tickets and passes. Riders can use their EBT card at any Metrolink station ticket machine to validate and unlock the discount.

Funding for the discount is made possible by a grant from the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program (LCTOP), administered by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).

As the Transportation Authority for San Bernardino County, the Board plays a pivotal role in protecting the quality of life of its residents. Unfortunately, there are some from outside the region who continue to misrepresent our population. Check out this example from the State Legislature that fuels SBCTA’s need to stay diligent.