The Department of Transportation is launching the East San José Pa’Lante Microtransit Service in late fall 2026.

This two-year pilot will provide on-demand, affordable, and fully electric transportation for East San José residents. Pa’Lante can help bridge the gap between home, neighborhood destinations, and transit stops. This way, we can make local travel more accessible, sustainable, and community-centered.

Funding for this pilot was made possible by VTA’s Measure B Innovative Transit Service Models program.

How the Pilot Service Works

Eastside residents and community members will be able to book a ride, much like booking a ride with Lyft or Uber. Please note that rides are only offered within a 13-square mile area of East San José.

Here’s how it works:

• On-demand, corner-to-corner service: Riders can book trips via a mobile app or by phone
  • Door-to-door service will be available to seniors, parents with small children, and people with disabilities
• Affordable: Fares will align with VTA public transit rates and transfers will be free
• Electric fleet: Six electric vehicles, including two wheelchair-accessible vans, will operate seven days a week:
  • Monday through Friday: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Saturday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Sunday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Bike-friendly: Vehicles will include bike racks to support multimodal travel

A Positive Community Impact

Along with making it easier for Eastsiders to get around, Pa’Lante is accessible to all. The pilot program seeks to make a positive community impact, prioritize vulnerable groups, and create local jobs.

This program will provide transportation for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault to critical destinations outside the project area. Destinations include Valley Medical Center, County of Santa Clara courts, and police stations for emergency and legal services.

Community Partnership

The Pa’Lante pilot builds on the grassroots Promotora model of community engagement. Promotoras will:

• Recruit riders and local drivers
• Host focus groups to inform service design
• Teach Eastsiders how to use the app and mobility options
• Gather public feedback to ensure the program addresses community needs

Why It Matters

East San José residents have long experienced gaps in mobility access and Pa’Lante aims to change that. This program will provide reliable and affordable transportation options that help residents get where they need to go. Pa’Lante can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Where in East San José Can I Find This Service?

We plan to launch the pilot program throughout East San José. This includes portions of districts 5, 7, and 8.