Oceanside, Calif.’s North County Transit District (NCTD) officially launched its new on-demand microtransit service, NCTD+, in the City of Vista. This marks a significant expansion of flexible and accessible public transportation in North San Diego County.

The service was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Vista Transit Center. NCTD CEO Shawn M. Donaghy, NCTD Board Member Corinna Contreras, and California Assemblymember Laurie Davies addressed community members and local stakeholders.

Expanding Local Access, Connectivity

Launched earlier this month, NCTD+ offers on-demand rides within a seven-square-mile service zone in Vista. The zone includes vital community destinations and connects to three SPRINTER rail stations and 79 BREEZE bus stops, increasing local mobility and first-mile/last-mile access. 

Key service destinations include Vista Community Clinic, Brengle Terrace Park, Moonlight Amphitheater, Food4Less, and the Boys & Girls Club.

“NCTD+ is perfect for short trips around Vista and provides a convenient transportation option to connect to the SPRINTER,” said Donaghy. “Kids can ride free, making NCTD+ the best way for families to travel throughout the city.”

NCTD+ joins a growing national trend of flexible, app-based transit services to complement traditional fixed-route systems and improve coverage in lower-density areas. Riders can book trips via the free NCTD+ app, available on iOS and Android, or by calling if a smartphone is unavailable.

Affordable, Inclusive, and Family-Friendly

NCTD+ vehicles are ADA-accessible, seat up to eight passengers, and are designed for comfort and efficiency. 

A one-way trip to or from a SPRINTER station costs just $1.50, with all other in-zone trips priced at $3.00. Additional passengers on the same booking can be added for $1.50 each. Youth 18 and under ride free, aligning with NCTD’s efforts to encourage lifelong transit use.

NCTD+ operates Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., and weekends from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., offering broad coverage for essential and recreational trips.

The launch of NCTD+, the agency said, reflects its commitment to enhancing mobility, equity, and connectivity in North County.