North County Transit District Launches New On-Demand Transportation Service Within San Marcos

The North County Transit District unveiled a new on-demand transit service this week in San Marcos — the first of four planned areas to receive the new service under a pilot program.

The NCTD+ service, which started Monday, is currently available within in a ten-square-mile zone in San Marcos. It includes connections to four rail stations, 72 bus stops, Palomar College, CSU San Marcos, and other popular locations.

“I am thrilled to see this new service launch in San Marcos,” said San Marcos Mayor Rebecca Jones in a statement.

“It provides an entirely new transportation option for college students, seniors, families and employees — anyone who needs to get around in San Marcos.”

NCTD+ vans pick up passengers and take them to their destination within the service zone. A one-way ride to or from a SPRINTER station is $2.50; all other destinations within the service zone are $5, and $2.50 for every additional rider. Children 5 years old and younger ride free with an adult, and there is no surge pricing.

Rides can be scheduled through the free NCTD+ app, which can be downloaded from the Apple Store or Google Play, or people can book trips by calling (760) 726-1111. From now through December 31st, residents get their first ride free with promo code FREERIDE.

NCTD+ is available daily from 6 a.m. until 9 p.m.

The next NCTD+ service will be launched in the Vista area by next spring.