Transdev North America offers specialized transportation services, known as ACCESS, tailored for individuals in Santa Clara County's disabled community.
In a significant move towards enhancing accessible transportation solutions, Transdev North America has taken over the operation of the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority's (VTA) ACCESS Paratransit service as of July 1, 2025. The new contract, valued at approximately $110 million over three years, marks a strategic extension of Transdev’s leadership in inclusive mobility solutions within North America.
The ACCESS service, committed to providing accessible transportation solutions across North America, aims to deliver safe, efficient, accessible, and reliable transportation for Santa Clara County residents with disabilities. This service, designed for individuals with physical, visual, or cognitive disabilities who cannot use VTA’s fixed-route bus or light rail services, offers approximately 2,000 trips per day using a fleet comprised of cutaways, minivans, sedans, and taxis, all equipped to accommodate accessibility needs.
Transdev North America is responsible for managing the daily operations of ACCESS, as well as overseeing the process of ADA Paratransit eligibility certification. The eligibility certification process ensures passengers who qualify for the service are assessed fairly and effectively, supporting equitable access.
The new contract does not disclose any changes in the transportation solutions offered by the ACCESS service. However, it does position Transdev as a key partner in VTA’s accessible transit offerings, enabling everyone to move freely and independently. The ACCESS service mirrors the VTA's fixed-route network in terms of coverage and scheduling, offering transportation that is as comprehensive as the conventional public transportation options.
This partnership reinforces Transdev’s commitment to accessible transit services for vulnerable populations in Santa Clara County. The fleet consists of a mix of vans, minibuses, sedans, and taxis, all equipped with accessible options, ensuring a comfortable and reliable travel experience for all passengers.
The contract was awarded unanimously (though reportedly with some reservation) by the VTA board, transitioning the service from a prior operator to Transdev. Workers previously employed by the former contractor are preparing for the shift in management and contract terms under Transdev.
In summary, the partnership between Transdev and the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) aims to empower independent mobility for individuals with disabilities in Santa Clara County. The ACCESS service, under Transdev's management, continues to provide critical ADA paratransit trips (~2,000 daily), ensuring equitable access to transportation for those who need it most.
- Transdev North America's leadership in inclusive mobility solutions within the industry, as demonstrated in the science of transportation, is being extended with the strategic contract to manage the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority's (VTA) ACCESS Paratransit service.
- The health-and-wellness of Santa Clara County residents with disabilities is being prioritized, as the ACCESS service, under Transdev's management, continues to deliver safe, efficient, accessible, and reliable transportation solutions designed for individuals with physical, visual, or cognitive disabilities.
- The mental-health of these individuals is also being considered, as Transdev North America is responsible for managing the daily operations of ACCESS, including the ADA Paratransit eligibility certification process, ensuring passengers who qualify for the service are assessed fairly and effectively.
- The partnership between Transdev and the VTA underscores the importance of finance in public-transit initiatives, as the $110 million contract over three years further cements Transdev's role as a key partner in VTA’s accessible transit offerings, enabling everyone to move freely and independently.
