REPORT TO SENIOR ADVISORY COMMISSION
SUBJECT
Title
Receive a Presentation and Provide Feedback on the Silicon Valley (SV) Hopper Shuttle Program
Report
BACKGROUND
In 2022, the City of Cupertino and the City of Santa Clara were awarded approximately $8.5 million by the California State Transportation Agency to continue Cupertino's existing on-demand shuttle program and partner with Santa Clara to expand services into our city with a zero emissions fleet. After Council approval, Santa Clara entered into a Funding Agreement with Cupertino in September 2023 to support the shuttle program. Via is the selected shuttle operator with funding provided by Santa Clara, Cupertino, and the State of California.
Phase 1 of the expansion was launched on November 20, 2023, covering an 8.5-square-mile area within the City of Santa Clara, primarily located south of El Camino Real. This phase also upgraded the program to a zero-emission fleet, featuring all-electric Kia Niro and Ford e-Transit vehicles.
Phase 2 of the program is currently being discussed between the two agencies. Phase 2 would entail increasing the number of fleet vehicles and possibly expanding the service area within Santa Clara.
DISCUSSION
At the regular meeting of the Senior Advisory Commission on March 16, 2026 the Commission will receive an educational presentation by City staff on the SV Hopper. The discussion may also include response to Commissioner questions and feedback on the service.
In Santa Clara, service is available in the southern half of the City from the Caltrain tracks to the City's southernmost City limit. In Cupertino, service is available throughout the entire City. SV Hopper will pick up and drop off anywhere between these two service areas.
The service operates via a dedicated app, with functionality like Uber and Lyft, but with a corner-to-corner service model (door-to-door is available for individuals with disabilities). This model is designed to cut down on detours and short...
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