In an effort to promote more microtransit options, the City of Santa Clara and Silicon Valley Power have partnered with the City of Cupertino and the State of California to launch a new public, on-demand rideshare service called Silicon Valley (SV) Hopper. Phase 1 of the expansion in Santa Clara will serve the southern half of the City, with a future Phase 2 expansion to cover the northern half of the City.
In 2022, the two cities were awarded approximately $8.5 million by the California State Transportation Agency to continue Cupertino’s existing on-demand shuttle program and expand service into Santa Clara with a zero-emissions fleet. Service is now underway in Santa Clara.
How to Ride Using the SV Hopper App
SV Hopper is an on-demand transportation service similar to ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, except that it is sponsored through state and city funds.
To book a ride with SV Hopper, you must first download the app. You can find it at the following link: https://city.ridewithvia.com/hopper. Once you have downloaded the app and created an account, you will book a ride. Your driver will pick you up.
If you do not have a smartphone, you can call (669) 201-1892 for a ride.
The SV Hopper runs Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How Much Do Rides Cost?
To gain more riders on the app, the City is currently offering the first five rides for free, provided they are used before Dec. 20, 2023. After that, it’s a flat rate.
Rates:
- One-way Fare: $3.50
- Discounted Fare: $1.75
- Additional Riders: $1 each
Discounts are available to seniors 65 and older with a photo ID. Students can also receive a discounted ride if they show a valid student ID. There is also a low-income discount for riders who have Cal Fresh or Medicare/Medicaid cards. People living with disabilities can receive a discount if they show a valid disabled placard and registration card.
There are vans to accommodate wheelchairs. People living with disabilities will be provided door-to-door service in Santa Clara and Cupertino.