Media Relations

Press Releases

To view the latest NCTD press releases, click here.

NCTD Logos and Images

NCTD has photos and logos available for download.
Click here to view our photo library page.

Advertising

Clear Channel Outdoors manages and sells external BREEZE bus advertising and other vendors handle vending machine kiosk advertising on behalf of NCTD.

For business development opportunities contact: Deborah Castillo
dcastillo@nctd.org
(760) 967-2817

Click here to view the contact information for advertising vendors and to learn more about Business and Advertising Opportunities with NCTD.

Department Contact Information

If you are a member of the media and would like information concerning NCTD, contact:

Mr. Alex Wiggins, Communications Director
(760) 966-6793

Looking to film a movie or take professional photographs at our stations, transit centers or on our vehicles? Contact NCTD customer service at 760-966-6500 with your request for a video or photo shoot.

In Transit Customer Newsletters 2010

English In Transit Spring 2010
Spanish En Tránsito Primavera de 2010

News / Press Releases

NCTD Technology Chief Named a Premier IT Leader by Computerworld

OCEANSIDE,Calif.-December 2, 2011—Angela Miller, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Sustainability Officer for the North County Transit District, has been named one of Computerworld’s Premier 100 Information Technology Leaders for 2012.

Miller is honored this year alongside top information executives from major corporations, including Boeing, NBC News, Mazda and Motorola. IDG’s Computerworld, a leading publication for the information technology industry, releases the Premier 100 IT Leaders list each year after garnering hundreds of nominees from distinguished organizations around the world.

Miller left a Global Fortune 100 company four years ago to work at NCTD because she wanted to do more than “make widgets because they were cool.” Instead, she said, “I wanted the opportunity to work as part of a high-performing team that could deliver creative projects for customers.” Some of the achievements spearheaded by Miller include:

• Securing competitive funds to install four solar projects on NCTD property that will save NCTD $1 million in operational energy costs in the first five years.
• Building the public transit industry’s first Green Data Center, saving NCTD $30,000 in energy costs in the first year.
• Launching wireless internet and electronic ticketing systems on the COASTER commuter rail line and real-time arrival information for customers on the BREEZE bus system. (2012)

One of Miller’s current projects, a wireless communication system on the COASTER, is expected to revolutionize the way the industry handles customer communication during train emergencies. Through a partnership with Homeland security and the Federal Railroad Administration, NCTD’s commuter rail system will be first system in the nation with the technological capacity to provide wireless voice and video communications between customers and NCTD’s operations center in all cars in a trainset—even if those cars are separated in a derailment. This is a significant advancement in railroad safety.

“People depend on NCTD to provide more than 11 million rides a year, and my goal is to make those rides secure, sustainable, cost-effective, and convenient for our community,” Miller said. “I believe NCTD can continue to be a center for technology innovation and job creation for the industry. My belief is that through technology, we can significantly improve our customers’ experience with public transit.”

Matthew Tucker, NCTD Chief Executive Officer, says Miller has bridged the gap between technology, operations, and customer service.

“She has consistently advanced initiatives that enhance our service delivery and improve the riding experience of our customers,” Tucker said. “We are very proud of Angela and agree with Computerworld that she is one of the best in the technology field.”

North County Transit District Awarded Federal Grant Dollars to Replace Older Buses

New buses to reduce carbon footprint

Customers riding on North County Transit District’s BREEZE bus system will soon be helping to improve air quality while travelling in style thanks to a Federal Transit Administration (FTA) grant. NCTD officials announced the receipt of $4,621,860 in funding from the FTA’s “State of Good Repair” (SOGR) competitive grant program.

The SOGR grant requires a 20 percent match, or $1,155,465 million in local TRANSNET funding. The SOGR grant funding totals $5,777,325 million which will enable NCTD to purchase up to 12 Compressed natural Gas (CNG) buses, replacing 12 older diesel coaches.

The new CNG buses will lessen NCTD’s carbon footprint considerably. Diesel buses emit a mixture of visible air pollutants known as particulate matter (PM). Another pollutant, nitrogen oxide (NOx), is a highly reactive gas which forms quickly from emissions from cars, trucks and buses, power plants and off-road equipment. NOx contributes to the formation of ground-level ozone and fine particle pollution. NOx is linked with a number of adverse effects on the respiratory system.
“The impact of this grant goes far beyond our own customers who will actually ride these buses,” said Thomas Lichterman, NCTD’s Chief Operations Officer.

“These new vehicles and the ensuing reduction in harmful pollutants will benefit every single person living and breathing in North County,” Lichterman said.
In replacing the diesel buses, NCTD estimates the 12 CNG buses will reduce up to a quarter ton of NOx and 11.4 pounds of PM in their first year of service.
Currently, NCTD has an active fleet of 144 buses comprised of 90 CNG, 24 unleaded and 30 diesel fuel buses. The fleet’s average age is 7.2 years old with an average of 350,000 miles.

Historically, NCTD would replace about 15 buses, or 10 percent of its fleet annually. The last time NCTD replaced buses was 2010 when 24 diesel buses were replaced with smaller cutaway van conversion buses. Prior to that, the last full-sized bus purchase was in 2007 when 12 full-sized diesel buses were replaced with full-sized CNG buses.

“The grant funding could not have come at a more critical time,” said Lichterman. Normally, sixty buses would have been replaced over the last four years, Lichterman explained. “We have a fleet replacement backlog of 30 old 40-foot diesel buses. This grant will allow us to reduce our bus maintenance cost per mile from 30 cents to eight cents per mile with new CNG buses.”

NCTD reports that each of the soon to be replaced older buses have had at least one engine and one transmission overhaul, and would otherwise require another engine and transmission overhaul in the next 12 months if kept in the active BREEZE fleet. Lichterman attributed reduced grant funding resulting from the economic downturn as key factors in slowing NCTD’s fleet replacement schedule.

BREEZE passengers will likely see the new buses rolling down North County streets by late 2012.

NCTD Wins Federal Transit Administration Grant for Solana Beach Transit Station

Transit Parking Study Key to Development

The North County Transit District (NCTD) won a $338,580 grant to continue exploratory work at the Solana Beach Transit Station on a transit development project in cooperation with the City of Solana Beach. The goal is to balance mixed use commercial and/or residential development with easy access to a variety of transit services while coordinating with the surrounding neighborhood.

The grant will address the needs of NCTD and the development vision of the City of Solana Beach.

“NCTD is pleased to partner with the City of Solana Beach,” said Mathew Tucker, Executive Director of North County Transit District. “Together we will embark upon a path that will benefit development and transit commuters alike,” said Tucker.

Solana Beach City Manager, David Ott said, “the grant will aid in the Transit District and City’s goal of developing and implementing a train station transit parking study that will ultimately lead to a long-term parking solution for the Solana Beach Train Station Transit Center users and lead to the creation of a mixed use commercial development for the site that will be compatible with and enhance the community character of Solana Beach.”

Over the next 12 to 18 months, the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration grants will fund a parking management study, real estate advisory services, project design, and environmental activities.
Still under consideration is the issuance of a Request for Qualifications to select a developer and a development concept.

The grant required a local funding match of $84,645, bringing the funding for this phase of the project to $ 423,225.

Special COASTER fares and schedule for Carlsbad Faire

Get discount train tickets and avoid parking hassles

OCEANSIDE, Calif. – The North County Transit District is adding Sunday COASTER service and offering two-for-one train tickets for the Carlsbad Village Street Faire Nov.6.

COASTER trains will take customers directly into the heart of the fair, which organizers tout as the nation’s largest one-day event of its kind.

This event marks the one-year anniversary of the first time NCTD offered Sunday service. The special Sunday trains were so popular for last fall’s Carlsbad Village Street Faire, NCTD made Sunday service a permanent fixture of the COASTER’s year-round schedule. The COASTER now runs eight trains on a typical Sunday, but this Sunday’s schedule will add six more trains to maximize the convenience and allow fair-goers to avoid the hassle of parking and traffic.

The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce hosts the Faire from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and organizers expect as many as 100,000 to attend. The bi-annual fair features about 900 vendors ready to help kick off the holiday shopping season, an international food court, children’s activities, live bands, and a beer and wine garden.

Sunday’s special COASTER schedule can be found here.

NCTD offers extra COASTER service and discount fares May 1
Avoid the parking hassles of popular events

OCEANSIDE, Calif. – The North County Transit District will offer extra Sunday COASTER trains and discount tickets May 1 to help San Diego County residents avoid the parking hassle of some of the area’s most popular events.

The COASTER is offering a regular Sunday schedule throughout the spring and summer for the first time in the train’s 16-year history, but this Sundays’ schedule will include even more trains. NCTD is boosting the schedule in anticipation of high ridership due to a large number of weekend activities, including:

• Carlsbad Village Street Faire* – Get off the COASTER at our Carlsbad Village stop, which is in the heart of the nation’s largest one-day street fair.
• Old Town Fiesta Cinco de Mayo** – Exit the COASTER at the Old Town stop to help celebrate this event’s 25th anniversary.
• ArtWalk*** – Take the COASTER to Santa Fe Depot and walk three blocks north to San Diego’s original fine arts event.

Every COASTER ticket, including monthly passes, will be eligible for special two-for-one fare Sunday. A passenger who purchases any COASTER ticket can bring a companion free.

NCTD offers free parking at every COASTER station except Santa Fe Depot.

For more information, click here.
 

NCTD Introducing More Reasons to Ride
Lower fares and extended service hours begin Jan. 20

NCTD announces COASTER service to the Carlsbad Village Street Faire

For the first time, COASTER trains will take customers directly into the heart of the Carlsbad Village Street Faire, which organizers tout as the nation’s largest one-day event of its kind.

Two-for-one tickets will be offered on COASTER trains for the November 7 event and SPRINTER light rail customers will enjoy free connections. COASTER trains don’t typically run on Sundays, but NCTD is offering a robust train schedule and discount prices to create a special opportunity for fair attendees from all over San Diego County. The SPRINTER light rail train will also operate on a special Sunday schedule, connecting inland passengers to the COASTER stop at the Oceanside Transit Center (OTC). The special SPRINTER service will run every half-hour between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

The Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce hosts the event from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and organizers expect as many as 100,000 to attend. The bi-annual fair features about 900 vendors ready to help kick off the holiday shopping season, an international food court, children’s activities, live bands, and a beer and wine garden.

Discounts and Schedules
- Buy any COASTER ticket and a companion rides FREE.
- Monthly COASTER pass holders can bring a companion FREE.
- SPRINTER day and monthly passes will be honored on the COASTER.

Convenient Schedule:
- From San Diego, catch one of three COASTER trains headed north before 1 p.m., picking up at the Santa Fe Depot, Old Town, and Sorrento Valley Stations.
- Between Oceanside and Solana Beach, COASTER trains run nearly hourly all day.
- From inland, SPRINTER trains run every half-hour during fair hours, with two options for a FREE quick connection to Carlsbad Village:

Exit at the Coast Highway Station and catch the 101 BREEZE bus south.
or Exit at Oceanside Transit Center and catch the COASTER south.

To find more fare information and schedules, click on the Carlsbad Village Street Faire icon at gonctd.com.

SANDAG/NCTD Media Advisory

RAIL line between OCEANSIDE and San Clemente SHUT DOWN FOR WEEKEND

Alternative Services to be Provided for Passengers

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 24 to Monday, Sept. 27, 2010 10:30 p.m. (Friday) to 4 a.m. (Monday)

WHERE: LOSSAN coastal rail line north of Oceanside

WHAT: The LOSSAN coastal rail line between the San Diego region and the cities to the north will be shut down this weekend to allow crews to work on a section of track in Camp Pendleton as part of an overall effort to upgrade reliability and safety in the corridor. Passengers on Amtrak and Metrolink trains will be routed around the work site via bus and alternative train options. Freight traffic will be suspended during the weekend. The closure will not directly affect the COASTER train, which will run on its normal schedule. Work is expected to begin on Friday at 10:30 p.m. and continue until Monday at 4 a.m. The closures are expected to impact approximately 50 trains this weekend. For specific information, see www.KeepSanDiegoMoving.com/LOSSAN.

NCTD Expands Fourth of July Service to Save Customers Time

Declare your independence from traffic congestion by riding public transit

OCEANSIDE, June 24 -- Why waste precious holiday weekend minutes stuck in traffic? The North County Transit District (NCTD) will offer plenty of options for getting around this Fourth of July weekend, with convenient services offered on BREEZE buses, COASTER and SPRINTER trains.

Special COASTER service on Sunday, July 4 makes it easy to get to a Padres game, a favorite beach destination or the San Diego County Fair. (See below July 4 COASTER schedule). The expanded service will feature seven southbound and seven northbound trains, including two additional night trains to get customers home after the San Diego County Fair fireworks.

Headed to the beach? Both COASTER and SPRINTER trains and select BREEZE bus routes provide convenient access to North County beaches. Customers may bring along bikes and surfboards less than six feet in length.

The COASTER will operate its regular schedule on Saturday, July 3 and Monday, July 5. BREEZE buses and SPRINTER trains will operate normal schedules throughout the holiday weekend. As a reminder, NCTD operates BREEZE bus routes from Escondido and Solana Beach to the San Diego County Fair.

NCTD observes Monday, July 5 as an administrative holiday; therefore, customer service locations in Oceanside, Vista and Escondido will be closed. Customers can visit www.GoNCTD.com or call 511 for assistance with trip planning.

Special COASTER Schedule for Sunday July 4, 2010

*Trains #695 & 698 hold at Solana Beach until 10:15 p.m. to pick up customers from San Diego Fair Shuttle Buses.

NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

NCTD Customer Service Relocates to Oceanside Transit Center

New “Oceanside Transit Store” now conveniently located in the heart of busy transit center

OCEANSIDE, June 15 -- This week the North County Transit District (NCTD) opened a new office at the Oceanside Transit Center. Now called the Oceanside Transit Store, the office will be staffed by members of NCTD’s customer service team.

“Improving the customer experience is one of the top priorities of NCTD’s Executive Board. The new Oceanside Transit Store is conveniently located in the heart of North County’s busiest transit center, which serves as our main hub for the BREEZE, COASTER and SPRINTER lines of service. In addition to transit pass sales, our customer service team will be on hand to answer questions and assist passengers with trip planning,” says NCTD Executive Director Matthew Tucker.

NCTD customer service will continue to staff the Escondido Transit Center Monday through Friday and the Vista Transit Center during peak pass sale periods.

The new Oceanside Transit Store is located in the remodeled Greyhound office on the eastern end of the transit center, near the intersections of South Tremont and West Topeka streets. The hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Oceanside Transit Store offers monthly pass sales, information about the transit system, and reduced fare pass sales for eligible customers. NCTD’s customer service team can be reached at (760) 966-6500. Customers can also visit www.GoNCTD.com or call 511 for assistance with trip planning.

The customer service center located at NCTD’s headquarters on Mission Avenue in Oceanside will close permanently on Monday, June 21st. The customer service window on the bus island at the Oceanside Transit Center is closed for a period of approximately 30 days to undergo remodeling.

NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

NCTD Donates 12 Retired Paratransit Vehicles to Community Organizations

Vehicles to benefit community groups who transport people with disabilities, senior citizens and low income populations

OCEANSIDE, May 25 -- The North County Transit District (NCTD) recently donated 12 retired paratransit vehicles to Full Access & Coordinated Transportation, Inc. (FACT) to support shared transit services for people with disabilities, seniors and low income populations. These vehicles were made formally available to governmental and non-profit service providers in San Diego County through a lottery program in April 2010.

The lottery was held at the FACT board meeting on April 14 and the following 12 organizations were randomly selected and awarded one paratransit vehicle each: Chabad of Poway, Rancho Bernardo Senior Center, Boys & Girls Club of Oceanside, Media Arts Center San Diego, TERI, Inc., North County Solutions for Change, Ramona Unified School District, Boys & Girls Clubs of San Dieguito, Green Oak Ranch Ministries, Inc., Bread of Life, Inc., North County Lifeline, Inc., and From the Inside Out, Inc.

“We are thrilled to be a recipient of a donated van from NCTD and FACT,” says Laura White, director of development from TERI, Inc., a North County non-profit that serves individuals with disabilities. “TERI, Inc. moves up to 600 individuals each day. This donation helps keep our operating expenses down and improves the quality of life for these individuals.”

These organizations provide services within NCTD’s service area and will use the vehicles to help transport their clients in North County. By supporting these organizations, NCTD is fulfilling its vision to build an integrated transit system throughout the North County area.

“The FACT Board of Directors and staff are proud to be partners with NCTD and the community in improving mobility in our region,” said Arun Prem, FACT executive director. “The donation of 12 small buses is a win-win for transit and specialized transportation. The additional transportation provided will supplement transit and enhance overall mobility for our community. We would like to congratulate the recipients and thank them for responding to our outreach.”

The vehicles, according to Federal Transit Administration (FTA) guidelines for public transit agencies, had surpassed their useful life of at least five years of age and/or more than 150,000 miles. NCTD’s paratransit vehicles had formally operated as LIFT minibuses and all had more than 200,000 miles or been operating for more than five years.

About North County Transit District
NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

About Full Access and Coordinated Transportation (FACT)
FACT is a non-profit corporation formed in 2005 through the actions of members of the San Diego community. FACT is committed to promoting transportation services for all residents of San Diego County and especially for seniors, people with disabilities and individuals with low income. More information can be found at www.FactSD.org or contact FACT at (760) 643-4081.

Two-for-One Day Passes on SPRINTER and BREEZE Provide Easy Access to Vista Strawberry Festival

Arrive at the Vista Strawberry Festival or 5K Running Event Safely, Quickly and with Friends

OCEANSIDE, May 19 -- North County Transit District (NCTD) will continue its weekend two-for-one fare special for SPRINTER and BREEZE customers through the end of May. The Memorial Day weekend’s featured destination is the Vista Strawberry Festival in downtown Vista on Sunday, May 30.

Approximately 15,000 people are expected to attend the Strawberry Festival, leading to increased traffic along Highway 78 and surrounding roadways. SPRINTER and BREEZE customers can avoid the traffic and parking headaches while relaxing with their friends onboard the bus or train. The event is within walking distance from the Vista Transit Center.

The Vista Strawberry Festival will take place in downtown Vista on Main Street from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature many fun activities such as carnival rides, a “Strawberry Idol” karaoke contest, strawberry sumo wrestling, street vendors, a beer garden and food court. The event is sponsored by the Vista Village Business Association and the Vista Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www.vistastrawberryfest.com.

NCTD is offering a special two-for-one fare promotion on the SPRINTER rail line and the BREEZE bus system every Saturday and Sunday throughout the month of May. For just the cost of one $5 Day Pass, two customers can conveniently reach their destination on both modes. The Day Pass includes unlimited travel on both SPRINTER trains and BREEZE buses throughout the day. The day pass can be purchased from a SPRINTER station ticket vending machine or on board a BREEZE bus. As a reminder, children 5 and under always ride for free onboard all NCTD trains and buses.

Additional events are listed online at: http://gonctd.com/calendar.htm.

For complete trip planning information or more details about two-for-one SPRINTER/BREEZE fares, call toll free 511 or visit GoNCTD.com.

NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

Two-for-One Day Passes on SPRINTER and BREEZE

Go to the Escondido Street Fair and Bring a Friend for Free

OCEANSIDE, May 10 -- On Sunday, May 16 customers can take advantage of two-for-one fares on the SPRINTER and BREEZE for travel to the Escondido Street Fair in downtown Escondido. The family-friendly street fair is the second largest in California. The event features a farmers’ market, international food and live entertainment.

The fair takes place on Grand Avenue between Centre City and Ivy from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is sponsored by the Escondido Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Business Association.

North County Transit District (NCTD) will offer a special two-for-one fare promotion on the SPRINTER rail line and the BREEZE bus system every Saturday and Sunday throughout the month of May. For just the cost of one $5 Day Pass, riders can conveniently reach their destination on both modes. The Day Pass includes unlimited travel on both SPRINTER trains and BREEZE buses throughout the day.

The day pass can be purchased from a SPRINTER station ticket vending machine or on board a BREEZE bus. As a reminder, children 5 and under can always ride for free on all NCTD trains and buses.

Additional events are listed online at: http://gonctd.com/calendar.htm.

For complete trip planning information or more details about two-for-one SPRINTER/BREEZE fares, call toll free 511 or visit GoNCTD.com.

NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

North County Transit District’s Angela Miller to receive 2010 “Cox Business Exemplary Award”

San Diego Business Journal’s 3rd Annual Information Technology Executive of the Year Awards to be held on May 6

OCEANSIDE, May 5 -- The North County Transit District today announced that Chief Technology and Sustainability Officer Angela K. Miller will be awarded the “Cox Business Exemplary Award” at the San Diego Business Journal’s 3rd Annual Information Technology Executive of the Year event on Thursday, May 6.

The Information Technology Executive Awards recognize the outstanding information technology executives who work in San Diego. The finalists were selected by an independent panel of judges.

Since her arrival at the North County Transit District a little more than two years ago, Miller has transformed the function of NCTD’s information technology department. Not only did she overhaul and update NCTD’s entire network infrastructure, she also implemented a technology recycling program, managed the installment of NCTD’s first solar system, and built one of the public transit industry’s first Green Data Centers. The data center will provide a 15-year return on investment based on energy savings.

Miller’s passion is combining sustainability and information technology. She has brought in more than $4 million in competitive grant funds, and made NCTD a showcase for new technologies in areas ranging from security to operations.

“From day one, Ms. Miller dedicated herself to improving NCTD’s technology and our overall sustainability,” said Executive Director Matt Tucker. “Because of her hard work and leadership in the department, our technology not only reduces our environmental impact, but also our overall expenses.”

NCTD moves more than 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation for North San Diego County. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD’s mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

Experience the Benefits of Train Travel on May 8, National Train Day

North County Transit District celebrates with two-for-one fares offered all day on COASTER and SPRINTER trains

North County Transit District (NCTD) on Saturday, May 8, will join Amtrak and hundreds of rail agencies throughout the United States to celebrate National Train Day. NCTD will host a free event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Oceanside Transit Center and offer two-for-one fares on the COASTER and SPRINTER all day. The fare specials allow every customer who purchases a COASTER ticket or SPRINTER $5 Day Pass the ability to bring along a second passenger for free.

The North County Model Railroad Society will display an interactive model railroad at the transit center for COASTER and SPRINTER riders, rail enthusiasts and community members to enjoy. In addition, NCTD and Operation Lifesaver will distribute promotional giveaways.

“Every day is a train day to us at North County Model Railroad Society,” said Al Cuevas, NCMRS president. “We look forward to sharing our love of trains and railways with other San Diegans on May 8.”

NCTD’s COASTER and SPRINTER lines create a multi-regional network that plays a vital role in San Diego’s transportation system. The trains provide safe and reliable access to North County’s largest higher education institutions, employment centers, popular beaches and shopping centers.

This is the third annual National Train Day hosted by Amtrak. It commemorates the 141st anniversary of the first transcontinental railroad’s inception by hosting family-friendly events coast-to-coast in cities throughout the nation. For more information on National Train Day visit www.nationaltrainday.com.

NCTD will continue the celebration by offering the special two-for-one promotional SPRINTER and BREEZE $5 Day Passes every Saturday and Sunday for the entire month of May. The COASTER two-for-one promotional offering is valid only on Saturday, May 8.

For complete trip planning information or more details about two-for-one fares, call toll free 511 or visit GoNCTD.com.

NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

Click here to download the flyer.

Two-for-One Day Passes on SPRINTER and BREEZE Help Customers Save Money

Promotion to be Offered Every Saturday and Sunday in May

North County Transit District (NCTD) will offer a special two-for-one promotion on the SPRINTER rail line and the BREEZE bus system every Saturday and Sunday throughout the month of May. For just the cost of one $5 Day Pass, customers can enjoy unlimited travel throughout the day for two people on both modes.

The SPRINTER and BREEZE bus promotion allows riders to conveniently reach their destination at a discounted price. The $5 Day Pass can be purchased from a SPRINTER station ticket vending machine or on board a BREEZE bus. As a reminder, children 5 and under can always ride for free on all NCTD trains and buses.

On Sunday, May 2 customers can take advantage of two-for-one fares on the SPRINTER and BREEZE for travel to the Cinco de Mayo celebration, “Fiesta en la Playa,” at the Oceanside Pier. The event is one of the largest Cinco de Mayo celebrations in North County. The celebration is hosted by Univision KBNT-TV and features traditional food and family entertainment, information and giveaways from various sponsors. The Oceanside Transit Center is located just blocks from the Oceanside Pier.

In the month of May, the following events are also accessible by NCTD’s public transit services:

Additional events are listed online at: http://gonctd.com/calendar.htm.

Click here to download the flyer.

For complete trip planning information or more details about two-for-one SPRINTER/BREEZE fares, call toll free 511 or visit GoNCTD.com.

NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

NCTD Sustainability Programs Protect the Environment and Reduce Energy Consumption

District encourages public to make a once-a-week Earth Day pledge

The North County Transit District (NCTD) is recognizing Earth Day 2010 with an aggressive sustainability campaign that will yield major environmental benefits by the end of the year. The two-part program includes extensive solar improvements at District facilities and challenges the public to ride public transit at least once a week as part of their personal sustainability goals.

With funds received through a $2 million federal grant, NCTD has developed a comprehensive solar program that will include the following system upgrades:

• A 500-kilowatt solar panel system at facilities in Escondido and Oceanside that will offset power used at SPRINTER and BREEZE bus maintenance facilities
• Testing solar technology in the rail right-of-way in space that cannot be utilized for other purposes
• Rooftop solar panels at District administrative facilities, which will offset power used at those locations
• Solar carports and solar-powered vehicle charging units at various transit stations, available at no charge to monthly pass customers.

The $2 million grant was made possible by the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act’s Transit Investments for Greenhouse Gas and Energy Reduction program.

Many of these installations will be the first in the nation and will demonstrate the feasibility of similar uses by other rail agencies. The District also intends to pursue private partnerships to expand solar power generation.

In addition to its solar program, NCTD recently completed one of the public transit industry’s first Green Data Centers. The data center will reduce the District’s energy demand by more than 30 percent a year. For this w ork, NCTD has registered for and anticipates receiving a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver Certification for Commercial Interior Spaces. When awarded, the Data Center will be the first in San Diego County to achieve this certification.

“North County Transit District is committed to a long-term sustainability plan that will both decrease our environmental impact and reduce our operating expenses,” said Chief Technology and Sustainability Officer Angela Miller. “We recently signed the American Public Transportation Association’s Commitment to Sustainability, and will measure our progress with performance goals like reduced energy costs, lower greenhouse gas emissions, decreased waste, transit-oriented design and increased renewable energy generation.”

In the spirit of sustainability, the District also encourages the public to recognize Earth Day by taking mass transit as least once a week as part of a personal sustainability program. Taking public transportation helps improve air quality by reducing pollution and gas consumption. Compared with private vehicles, public transportation produces significantly less emissions. In fact, more than half of NCTD BREEZE buses operate on compressed natural gas, and NCTD SPRINTER trains are powered by high efficiency diesel engines, which comply with strict emission standards.

NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

TWO-FOR-ONE COASTER TICKETS ON SATURDAY, APRIL 24 FOR THE ENCINITAS STREET FAIR

New online events calendar highlights fun community activities accessible by public transit in North County

On Saturday, April 24 the COASTER train will offer two-for-one fares so customers can conveniently and affordably travel to the Encinitas Street Fair. The promotional offer is valid all day on April 24, on all COASTER trains.

More than 100,000 people are expected to visit the street fair so parking will be a challenge. The street fair will feature 450 arts and craft vendors, four live stages, and rides for children, as well as a beer garden. The street fair is organized by the Downtown Encinitas MainStreet Association. For more information, visit http://www.encinitas101.com/events/26th-annual-streetfair/.

The COASTER promotion lets riders experience the beautiful COASTER train at a discounted price. Prices range from $10 to $13 for a round trip ticket for two people. Customers simply purchase a single COASTER one-way or round trip ticket from a machine at any COASTER station and a second companion rides along free. As a reminder, children 5 and under are always free on board all trains.

The Encinitas COASTER station is located at D Street and Vulcan Avenue. The street fair takes place on April 24 and April 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Highway 101 between D and J Streets. The COASTER does not run on Sundays. On Sunday, attendees can reach the street fair aboard NCTD’s BREEZE buses. Bus routes 101 and 309 serve Encinitas on Sundays.

For complete trip planning information or more details about 2-for-1 fares, call toll free 511 or visit GoNCTD.com. View the list of other special promotions and events accessible by NCTD’s transit services online at: http://gonctd.com/calendar.htm

NCTD serves 12 million passengers annually by providing public transportation within North San Diego County and via the COASTER to downtown San Diego. Its family of transit services currently includes the BREEZE bus system, the COASTER commuter rail service, LIFT paratransit and the SPRINTER light rail. It is NCTD's mission to deliver safe, convenient, reliable and user-friendly public transportation services.

COASTER Trains - the Fun and Convenient Way to Get Downtown for Padres Games

Don't miss a minute of the action this season at Petco Park! North County Transit District (NCTD) will again run COASTER trains for all 2010 San Diego Padres home games.

The new COASTER schedule begins Monday, April 5 and includes 2010 Padres season train times. COASTER trains run for every home Padres game, including special trains on Sundays. Padres fans can reach the ballpark stress-free and without traffic by riding the COASTER to downtown San Diego's Santa Fe Depot, then transferring for free to the San Diego Trolley (with a valid round trip COASTER ticket) for the quick ride to the Gaslamp Quarter station. When leaving PETCO Park after the game, fans can use their round trip COASTER ticket for a free Trolley ride to Santa Fe Depot.

COASTER northbound trains run from downtown San Diego for Padres home games. These special trains depart downtown 50 minutes after the final out of the game or special event with an absolute departure time of 12 midnight. After Friday night games, fans can catch the regularly scheduled Friday late night northbound COASTER train which departs Santa Fe Depot at 10:45 p.m. If Friday night games run past 9:55 p.m., the northbound return train will leave 50 minutes after the final out of the game, with an absolute departure time of 12 midnight.

New this season are Padres weekday games that begin at 3:35 p.m. The COASTER will operate a special southbound train that leaves Oceanside at 1:45 pm and arrives at Santa Fe Depot by 2:42 p.m. This train will not stop at the Old Town station.

Effective April 5, for the Spring/Summer season, the COASTER's new schedule features expanded Saturday service with six southbound and six northbound trains. The new schedule conveniently allows for Padres fans to reach the ballpark for a 5:35 pm. Saturday game. The suggested southbound train leaves Oceanside at 3:30 p.m. on Saturdays, making all stops along the route, and arrives downtown at 4:31 p.m. For the return trip, fans can catch a specially-scheduled Saturday northbound COASTER train which departs Santa Fe Depot 50 minutes after the end of the Padres game.

A special south

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