Big Blue Bus Celebrates 90 Years of Excellence

February 26, 2019 2:25 PM
by Robert McCall

This article originally appeared in the February edition of Seascape. 

Big Blue Bus (BBB) proudly celebrated its 90th anniversary in December. BBB could not have achieved this milestone without the support of its loyal customers and staff.

Dedicated and entrepreneurial-driven employees have been at the heart of the agency from the beginning. In 1921, a group of jitney operators established the Bay Cities Transit Company, which was later awarded a franchise from the City of Santa Monica to provide all local public transportation service. In 1928, the City launched its first official municipal bus line along Pico Boulevard with its signature blue and white buses.

Ninety years later, BBB continues to provide safe, reliable and affordable transportation for 13.3 million riders annually in Santa Monica and the Westside of Los Angeles. BBB currently operates a fleet of 195 vehicles that run on renewable natural gas and serve 20 routes across 58 square miles. Additionally, BBB provides expanded late night service (Blue at Night), as well as on-demand service for seniors and persons with disabilities (MODE).

Looking to the future, BBB will continue to stay on the cutting edge of transit technologies and practices. Later this year, BBB will receive its first battery electric bus; real-time signage and solar lighting will be installed at 200 high-volume bus stops; and even more amenities and services to improve safety and customer experience will be implemented.

BBB is excited to continue providing customers excellent service. Watch BBB’s 90th Anniversary video, which celebrates its rich history, its staff and most of all, its customers. 

Happy birthday, Big Blue Bus!

Authored By

Robert McCall
Community Engagement Administrator