Santa Clara VTA Unveils New Paratransit Vehicles

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA), San Jose, CA, has introduced a fleet of 14 new Paratransit ProMaster 3500 vehicles for it ACCESS Paratransit service.

The ProMaster 3500 features a softer and quieter ride compared to previous models, a seatbelt monitoring panel for added safety, and the latest Q’Straint ONE™ all-in-one wheelchair securement platform. The new fleet is more efficient, with an average of 15.7 mpg—twice the efficiency of the older models—and offers greater capacity and flexibility, accommodating up to seven ambulatory passengers and one wheelchair user.

These enhancements come as a direct result of community and Committee on Transportation Mobility and Accessibility feedback, leading to adjustments such as the inclusion of an emergency rear exit and a reconfigured floor plan to better meet the needs of passengers.

“This initiative underscores our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in our community,” said Cindy Chavez, chair of the VTA Board and Santa Clara County supervisor. “VTA also offers travel training to empower more people to navigate public transportation independently.”

The unveiling event also marked the launch of Phase II of the agency’s Mobility Assistance Program (MAP). The goal of MAP is to deliver transportation options that overcome barriers for equity priority communities to access essential services such as jobs, healthcare, housing, education, and civic engagement.

“Transit agencies like VTA will continue to evaluate what we can do for you,” said Derik Calhoun, chief operating officer. “The practices that we put in place to ensure that we provide the best service that we can provide, these things are under my supervision, and they are as important to me as they are to you.”

VTA holds agreements with Silicon Valley Independent Living Center, The Salvation Army Men’s Rehabilitation Center, and Catholic Charities. These community-based organizations distribute, collect, and assist applicants with applying and related administrative tasks of distributing transportation resources.