Residents in Gustine, Santa Nella, Los Banos, and Dos Palos now have a new way to get around town without relying on a personal vehicle, thanks to the launch of an on-demand micro bus service designed to make local travel more flexible and accessible.

The Micro Bus service, which began operating this week, allows riders to book trips through a mobile app, website, or by phone. Instead of traditional bus stops, the system uses “virtual stops” spaced roughly every quarter mile, enabling passengers to be picked up and dropped off closer to their destinations.

Service hours run Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and weekends from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with the final pick-up available at closing time each day.

Officials say the service is designed to benefit students, seniors, and workers by offering a quick and affordable way to travel locally, especially for those who may not have access to a personal vehicle. They describe the system as a hybrid between ride-share platforms and traditional public transit, tailored to meet the needs of westside Merced County communities.

To schedule a ride, users download The Micro Bus app—available for free on the App Store and Google Play—create a profile, and enter their pick-up and drop-off locations. The app then displays the nearest virtual stop and allows riders to track their bus in real time. Riders can also book by calling customer service at (209) 725-3813.

The service operates within the west side of Merced County and connects to the LB Commuter fixed-route, offering expanded mobility between the participating communities.

Officials say the goal is to provide a more customized transit experience, especially for those who may not have access to a car or prefer a more flexible alternative to traditional bus schedules.

For more information or to book a ride, search for “The MicroBus” in your app store or call the customer service line.