Residents who rely on local transit should prepare for a brief service pause and a longer-term change as the Baldwin Park Dial-a-Ride and fixed-route transit system transitions to a new operator. City officials announced that all transit and Dial-a-Ride services will be suspended on Thursday, Jan. 1, in observance of New Year’s Day.
Service will resume Friday, Jan. 2, under a new vendor, marking a significant shift in how Baldwin Park delivers local transportation services.
The City of Baldwin Park confirmed that Transdev Services, Inc. will assume responsibility for Dial-a-Ride and transit operations beginning Jan. 2, 2026. The change follows the conclusion of a long-running contract with Southland Transit, Inc., which served the city for three decades.
Baldwin Park Transit Service Change Details
According to the city, no buses or Dial-a-Ride vehicles will operate on Jan. 1. Riders are encouraged to plan ahead for medical appointments, work schedules, and holiday travel needs.
City officials described the service interruption as a standard holiday closure rather than a disruption tied to the vendor transition. Normal weekday service is scheduled to resume the following day.
Beginning Jan. 2, Transdev will manage day-to-day transit operations, including customer service and dispatch. Dial-a-Ride reservations will continue to be handled by phone at (626) 337-1555, the same number riders currently use.
What Riders Can Expect From The Transition
Officials said riders should expect continuity in service levels during the initial transition period. Routes, eligibility requirements, and fare policies are not expected to change immediately.
The city highlighted Transdev’s experience operating transit systems nationwide as a key factor in the selection process. City staff said the goal is to maintain reliability while improving long-term efficiency and rider communication.
The Baldwin Park transit service change also includes a technology upgrade aimed at improving access to information.
Baldwin Park Transit App Coming Soon
As part of the transition, the city announced plans to launch a new Baldwin Park Transit mobile app. The app is expected to provide service updates, scheduling information, and notifications for riders.
While a release date has not been announced, officials said the app is designed to make it easier for riders to track service changes and stay informed about delays or holiday closures.
Residents without smartphone access can continue to receive information by phone. City officials encouraged riders with questions or feedback to call (626) 337-1555.
Recognizing A Longtime Provider
City officials also acknowledged the departure of Southland Transit, thanking the company for 30 years of service to the Baldwin Park community.
In a statement shared with residents, the city expressed appreciation for the role Southland Transit played in providing mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, and residents without access to personal vehicles.
The Baldwin Park transit service change brings a one-day holiday closure, a new service provider, and upcoming technology improvements. Riders are advised to plan for no service on Jan. 1 and to expect regular operations to resume Jan. 2 under Transdev, with additional updates to follow as the transition moves forward.
